Thieving Octopus Unties Knots

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By Discovery Oct 1st 2012

Researchers studying in False Bay, South Africa, were attempting to gather information on the underwater life there when an octopus swam up and stole their bait.

Visits by octopuses aren't rare, as a baited canister is a draw for many types of undersea life, but in this video (sped up for your convenience) you can see the octopus holding a shark at bay while it learns to undo three ties. Once the ties are free from the bait canister, the octopus has won the prize and swims away.

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As the researcher said, "That's marine science for you, when even your best attempts are foiled by a creature that is far too clever."

Without the bait the science is over -- strictly speaking, but the show must go on for a few minutes... via Vimeo

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