Newport. Ore. — The tank in the visitor area of Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center is home to a new octopus.
The 9-pound female has been on exhibit and star of the “OctoCam” since June 8. “This is a perfect sized animal to grow into its habitat in the visitor center,” said Timothy Miller-Morgan, an extension veterinarian at the center.
Montgomery, the former octopus resident, was released back to the wild earlier this month. His replacement was donated by commercial fisherman Bob Eder, from the fishing vessel “Timmy Boy.” The octopus does not have a name yet. Typically, its name will be chosen by the donor or through a contest.
The animal lives in view of two “OctoCam” cameras — from the north and the south sides. The live stream is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week. About 20,000 viewers a day check in to see how the octopus moves, sleeps, eats and tries to hide from visitors. About 100 people a day visit the center, where the octopus tank is a star attraction.
