With eight dexterous appendages, an inky defense mechanism, and an aptitude for disguise, octopuses are known for their survival skills. But beyond the instinct to survive, there is more to the octopus mind than common knowledge suggests. Here, the team at Dolphin Excursions Hawaii, a snorkeling and adventure tour in Waianae, HI, offers some surprising insight into the minds of octopuses.

4 Intelligent Qualities of Octopuses

1. Individuality

When you observe intelligence in your dog or cat, you also notice their distinct personality. They don’t just tackle every situation with identical actions motivated by instinct. In the same vein, octopuses demonstrate individuality. When approached by snorkeling humans, one might greet and interact with them, showing an adventurous side. Another may hide, exhibiting shyness. Some might not react at all, while still others could even develop preferences toward certain humans.

2. Playfulness

One common feature of all intelligent creatures is a disdain for boredom. Octopuses, like humans, chimpanzees, and elephants, find ways to entertain themselves in ways unrelated to survival. In one experiment, octopuses were put into empty tanks with nothing but a pill bottle. Eventually, some of the octopuses began playing with the bottle. They would blow jets of water to push it into the tank’s water jet, almost like a game of ping-pong.

3. Memory

For an invertebrate, the octopus has a large brain. But what’s remarkable about these brains isn’t their size, it’s their ability to learn and remember. Certain areas of the octopus brain have developed specifically for memory storage and learning. These creatures have intricate minds that help them avoid predators, find prey, and navigate the complex ocean floors.

4. Curiosity

A notable mark of intelligence is curiosity for one’s surroundings. The octopus is an investigative species and will interact with its environment to learn more about it. Many who study octopuses in captivity report the cephalopods sneaking out of their tanks, disassembling equipment, and otherwise causing mischief.

These intelligent creatures are best observed in their natural environment, where they are free to explore. You might just catch sight of an octopus while snorkeling with Dolphin Excursions Hawaii. Their guides are experts on marine life, and you’ll learn plenty of fascinating facts about octopuses, dolphins, and other sea creatures while on their boat tours. Learn more about their snorkeling adventure and dolphin watching experience online, or call (808) 239-5579 to book a tour today.