CUTTLEFISH 'BEFRIENDS' FREEDIVER DURING RARE UNDERWATER ENCOUNTER
WITH PIX AND VID
BY SHUK YEE TSANG
A freediver exploring a kelp forest was surprised when a curious cuttlefish appeared to strike up a friendship, swimming alongside her and even perching on her hand.
The heartwarming encounter was captured by Danel Wentzel, from Cape Town, South Africa, while freediving in the kelp forests off the city's coastline.
Footage shows the common cuttlefish approaching Danel underwater before circling around her and remaining unusually close.
At one point, the cephalopod appears completely at ease in her presence, gently settling onto her outstretched hand as well as her diving fins.
Rather than darting away, as many wild marine animals do when approached by humans, the cuttlefish appeared calm and inquisitive throughout the interaction.
The footage offers a rare glimpse into the intelligence and curiosity of cuttlefish, which are known for their remarkable camouflage abilities, problem-solving skills and rapidly changing colours.
The animal repeatedly returned to Danel as she moved through the kelp forest, appearing comfortable in her company while exploring the underwater environment.
Danel said: "Made a new friend today.
"He's a bit of a shapeshifter and definitely better at hide-and-seek than me, but we really vibe.
"He's approximately five per cent brain, 95 per cent sass, and 100 per cent coming home in my camera roll."
The unusual encounter has delighted viewers online.
One commenter wrote: "So cute and how lucky you are to have experienced that."
Another said: "Stoppp. How he just sits on your hand. Too cute."
A third added: "What a cute new friend."
Another viewer commented: "Oh my word! How cute! He hitched a ride because dude was tired."
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