Part of the fun of exploring tide pools comes from trying to guess why the animals look and act as they do. Nowhere else on earth can you see such diverse methods of responding to this rugged world. To be a good tide pooler, you must also be a good detective. On land, it's easy to tell a plant from an animal, or an animal from a rock. Not so in the tide pools, especially at low tide when animals clamp down to keep from drying.
Many species are masters of disguise, using camouflage colors and shapes to hide in the pools.
For those willing to poke and probe in the pools at low tide, a world of bizarre animals in a vast array of colors, textures and shapes awaits you. But with a willingness to get wet, some common-sense safety measures and a spirit of adventure, you will be rewarded with hours of wildlife viewing pleasure. Pacific Intertidal Life, by Ron Russo and Pam Olhausen is a great pocket guide for under five dollars. Pick up a tide chart at a sporting goods store and look for minus tides for the best viewing opportunities. Pass up the animals exposed to the air and watch the deep pools where animals will be feeding.