Well, as I said . . . The octo eats the inhabitant and leaves the shell or shells of its victims on its doorstep. Investigating the area around the shell pile might reveal the creature. He or she will often be hiding behind a shell with only the eyes and a few sucker discs exposed and will most often be in a small cave or recess with no backdoor. Often the octo will allow a close approach but be careful, they can bite if really aroused.
Octo dens are great places for shell collecting.
Seldom will you find an octopus in the open but if you do, follow at a distance. You will be treated to some great colour changes and be sure to see some entertaining reactions from the other reef residents that come in contact with the octopus. If you ever do see an octopus in the open just radiating colours, be sure to scan the area for a second octopus. The males pulsate different colours prior to mating. The ensuing ritual is indescribable and must be seen to be believed Other individual creatures are well worth stopping for but it is the interactions of the reef inhabitants that provide so many unusual moments.