CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Several octopus sightings along the Corpus Christi coastline over the weekend caught the attention of beachgoers. Still, marine experts say the unusual encounters are not entirely unexpected, especially after recent cold weather.
At least three octopuses were reported washed up along local shores following a cold snap that caused Gulf water temperatures to drop quickly.
Jace Tunnell, the director of community engagement at the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, said these events tend to happen when sudden temperature changes slow an octopus’ body down, leaving it weak or disoriented…