The Giant Pacific Octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) lives in the waters off North America’s northwestern Pacific coast. Though this Cephalopod may seem armed, it is harmless! Once considered a man-killer, the Giant Pacific Octopus actually prefers flight to fight. Shy yet highly intelligent, it hides by day and combs the seafloor for crabs and other shellfish by night.
To ward off predators, blend into its surroundings, or attract a mate, the Giant Pacific Octopus can change its color and texture almost instantly.