Octopuses are like aliens on Earth: three hearts, blue blood, and the ability to squeeze through a space the size of their eyeball. But there is so much more to these weird and wonderful animals. Highly intelligent, octopuses can use tools, transform their bodies to mimic other animals, and even communicate with different species, including us. Now executive producer and National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron takes us on an adventure to discover the Secrets of the Octopus.
What Is Secrets of the Octopus?
Secrets of the Octopus is a three-part docuseries that explores these fascinating creatures. Paul Rudd, the narrator of the series, explains:
It’s been an incredible journey learning about these mysterious creatures and their interconnected lives. I can’t imagine audiences won’t be as blown away by the secret lives of octopuses as I was working on this series. If you’re going to dive deep into natural history, you have to do it with National Geographic. I’m thrilled to be working with James Cameron and the Nat Geo team to deepen our connection with the ocean and all of its creatures and curiosities.
The series premieres on National Geographic TV on Earth Day, Sunday, April 21st, and begins streaming on Disney+ and Hulu the following day. Let’s take a look at the three episodes in this series.
“ShapeShifters”
The octopus is like an alien on Earth, but they have one superpower we are only beginning to appreciate fully. By changing their color hundreds of times an hour or transforming the shape of their bodies to mimic their deadliest enemies, octopuses are the most extraordinary shapeshifters on the planet.
“Masterminds”
Octopuses break all the rules when it comes to animal intelligence. Born into the world as orphans, they are self-taught masterminds who are capable of solving complex problems, strategizing, and even planning for the future. The extraordinary superpower of their minds is the secret to their success.
“Social”
Octopuses were always considered to be nature’s ultimate loners, preferring their own company. The truth is they have secret social lives. From moms-to-be hanging out deep into their 100s to octopuses capable of coworking with other species, these aliens of nature are more sociable than ever imagined.
Why You Should See Secrets of the Octopus
I had the opportunity to watch the three episodes of Secrets of the Octopus in advance and really enjoyed them. These are truly fascinating creatures, and I was amazed at not only how intelligent they are but how they interact with their surroundings. As with all National Geographic shows, the cinematography is incredible and makes the viewer feel like they are swimming along with the National Geographic explorers. However, what really drew me in was the way the episodes of the series tell stories. Rather than looking at lots of octopuses, they follow one octopus at a time so the viewer becomes acquainted with it along with the explorer. Paul Rudd also does a wonderful job narrating the series with his easy-going voice.
I enjoyed learning about how octopuses, who are color-blind, can quickly change their color to match their surroundings. Some can even change the texture of their skin to blend in. Others can manipulate sea shells and coconut shells, using problem-solving skills to manipulate them into shelters. Though they have no bones and are soft, they can crush crabs and other prey with their hard, sharp, bird-like beak. With their large brains, octopuses are one of the smartest animals on the planet and have been around for millions of years, predating even the dinosaurs.
All three episodes are very engaging. I could not stop watching them. I look forward to using them in my high school science class when they begin streaming. Even viewers who do not normally watch nature documentaries will appreciate and enjoy Secrets of the Octopus. I highly recommend it and look forward to future productions of the Secrets of… series.
Be sure to watch Secrets of the Octopus when it premieres Sunday, April 21st on National Geographic and begins streaming on Disney+ and Hulu the following day. Here is a trailer to enjoy in the meantime.
