Overview
- The three-minute video has amassed thousands of likes and comments across social media since its debut on August 5.
- After seizing an underwater camera from divers John Roney and Chris Mullen, the octopus filmed its pink underbelly and fanned arms before using its suckers to power off the device.
- Once finished with filming, the octopus gently coiled its arms around Chris Mullen’s face mask in what the divers describe as a friendly hug.
- University of Lethbridge marine biologist Jennifer Mather says the octopus’s actions reflect playful exploration of a novel object rather than an attempt at taking selfies.
- The encounter showcases spontaneous human–wildlife interaction and has fueled discussions on cephalopod intelligence and the role of citizen videography in marine research.