Western Washington University’s SEA Discovery Center in downtown Poulsbo recently welcomed a Giant Pacific octopus to its aquarium.
The young octopus was discovered by researchers and students from Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory after she was found living inside a bottle at Driftwood Park on Whidbey Island. She has been named Klahanie, a Chinook word meaning “outside,” per a Facebook post from the aquarium.
“We hope that while she makes her temporary home with us as an ambassador for her species, that she will inspire visitors of all ages to get outside and protect and care for the Salish Sea,” the post reads.
“GPOs” face many challenges when they’re young, and only a small percentage survive to adulthood in the wild. During Klahanie’s stay, the SEA Discovery team will provide care and help guests learn how to protect one of the most iconic animals in our waters.
After about two years, the aquarium will work closely with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to return her to the exact location where she was found, so she can continue her life in the wild and contribute to the future of her species. GPOs live about 3 to 5 years.
The SEA Discovery Center is open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
