Suspect Caught for Stealing an 8-Arm Surveillance Camera
In a fascinating and unusual turn of events, diver Drew Collins found himself in a tug-of-war with a giant Pacific octopus during a dive off the coast of Des Moines, Washington, in January.
Drew Collins, a professional underwater and land photographer, and his dive buddy Randy Williams, volunteers at marine science centers in the Seattle area, were on a routine dive when the unexpected incident occurred. As Collins approached a rocky outcrop, he noticed a large octopus nearby.
The octopus, known for its curiosity and intelligence, seemed drawn to Collins and his camera rig. In a dynamic display, a tug of war ensued between the diver and the octopus, with the octopus having the upper hand due to its multiple arms. The octopus even managed to grab Collins' mask and camera handle during the encounter.
Despite the octopus' best efforts, it was unable to pull the camera rig inside its den. Instead, it tried to chew through the acrylic dome port, causing concern for Collins and Williams. After a few labored minutes of wrestling the camera rig away from the octopus, Collins decided to concede the battle and unattached the camera housing from his lanyard.
Randy Williams, who was recording the encounter, captured the event on video as proof of the octopus encounter. The video quickly gained attention in the diving community, but it's important to note that cases of octopuses deliberately taking cameras are rare or anecdotal rather than a regular behaviour.
Following the incident, Collins and Williams made a second dive to retrieve the camera. Although the acrylic dome port was damaged, the camera itself was undamaged, thanks to the sturdy construction of the equipment.
For those interested in underwater photography, Brent Durand, an avid California beach diver, underwater photographer, and editor with the Underwater Photography Guide, offers tips and advice through his articles and the guide's sister site, Bluewater Photo & Video, for purchasing underwater photography gear. Durand also has an article on Top 10 tips for fun beach diving.
You can follow the Underwater Photography Guide on Facebook to stay updated on the latest in underwater photography. To view Drew Collins' photography, visit Puget Sound Photography Underwater.
While this incident is unusual, it serves as a reminder of the incredible encounters that can occur during underwater dives and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.
- Drew Collins, being a professional in both underwater and land photography, often captures captivating images, including those of marine life.
- During a dive off the Bluewater coast in January, Collins encountered a curious and intelligent diver, a giant Pacific octopus.
- As Collins approached a rocky reef, the octopus seemed drawn to him and his camera gear, leading to an unanticipated tug-of-war.
- Despite the octopus' multiple arms giving it an advantage, Collins managed to free himself by detaching his camera housing, saving both the camera and his gear.
- In the realm of underwater photography, Brent Durand, a California beach diver and editor at the Underwater Photography Guide, provides useful tips and advice, including gear purchases, through his articles and Bluewater Photo & Video.
- Nudibranchs, vibrant and exotic marine creatures, are among the subjects that can be photographed using the tips and techniques provided by Durand.
- For garden enthusiasts or those interested in home-and-garden lifestyles, Drew Collins also offers landscape photography, capturing the beauty of various environments, including gardens.
- This unique octopus encounter underscores the unexpected and exhilarating experiences that diving can offer, emphasizing the importance of being adequately prepared and equipped for the adventure.
