BBC Natural World uncovers the secret life of the last Tree Octopus

The Last Tree Octopus, Thursday, BBC2, 8pm.

Extremely elusive and highly endangered the tree octopus was almost wiped out in the early 20th century when a passion for hats ornamented with cephalopod accoutrements fuelled widespread hunting. Even today octopus numbers remain below the critical level for successful reproduction. 

For the first time a team of scientists are uncovering the fate of this once common cephalopod in the temperate rainforest of North West America. Here the high humidity, and up to 6 metres of rain a year, protect the remaining tree octopi from desiccation, but to survive they need regular access to their spawning streams. Habitat loss and new roads impede their migration routes, but the biggest threat comes from introduced house cats. Can this peculiar species be saved?

Using the latest camera technology The Natural World brings you the secret life of the tree octopus, like you've never seen it before!

Find out more and learn how you can help

"Filming this species required many hours stuck up a tree but eventually we were able to witness the most intimate behaviours between a pair of courting Octopi, before the male led the female down the tree" - Rich Conhoax, Cameraman

Predation of the rare tree Octopus (Photo: Galen Leeds)