If you have any inclination to see an octopus this summer, a giant Pacific octopus named “Sherlock” is on display at the Bellingham Marine Life Center for the next two months. An ode to the British fictional detective, Sherlock is known for his strong intelligence and keen problem-solving skills.
Sherlock arrived in May as bycatch from the commercial shrimp industry and will reside in his tank until early August, when he’ll be returned to the sea, said Michael Hogan, public affairs administrator for the Port of Bellingham.
Sherlock has “developed a taste” for shrimp, Hogan added, and weighs in at around 15 pounds compared to an initial 10 pounds when he arrived.
Giant Pacific octopuses are the largest species of octopus in the world and can learn how to open jars, solve puzzles and even interact with humans. Their habitats range from shallow shorelines to underwater depths of more than 1,500 feet deep. They do not pose a large threat to humans and often thrive in colder, oxygen-rich waters.
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Olivia Capriotti is a Dow Jones summer news intern, specializing in data journalism. Reach her at oliviacapriotti@cascadiadaily.com.
