Image of North Pacific giant octopus

Description:

Believe it or not, these like to be petted. Put your hand at the entrance to their den & they'll stick a tentacle out and gently explore it. Stroke the tentacle & they'll respond with further interaction. An amazing experience! This was on a cross-bay boat trip & tidepool walk run by the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies -- highly recommended! To get the most out of the tidepools, plan your visit for an extra-low tide if at all possible.