Krystal Janicki, known as the octopus whisperer in her Vancouver Island community, has been diving for nine years and forming connections with local cephalopods for the past seven years. Her unique bond with these creatures is featured in the National Geographic series Secrets of the Octopus, produced by James Cameron and narrated by Paul Rudd. Janicki was chosen to be the human character for the Giant Pacific Octopus story in the series, where she helped find octopus for the filming team. Working with underwater cinematographer Maxwel Hohn, Janicki and Hohn spent hours searching for the right octopus to film, until a curious creature poked out of its den and led them on a tour of the reef. The experience was described as amazing by both Janicki and Hohn.
Filming for the National Geographic series began two years ago, with Janicki never expecting her bond with the sea creature to lead to her involvement in the series. She worked with scientists involved in the production to learn more about nature and hopes to serve as a stepping stone for people to appreciate and respect these incredible creatures. Janicki emphasizes the importance of appreciating and respecting octopuses and the ocean in general, rather than hunting them. Despite her newfound recognition as the octopus whisperer, she maintains that she is not a celebrity and does not seek that status.
The National Geographic series Secrets of the Octopus features multiple countries and species of octopus, with the Giant Pacific Octopus story showcasing Janicki’s unique bond with these creatures. The series is available for streaming in Canada on Nat Geo TV and Disney+. Janicki, a commercial and residential painter from Black Creek, B.C., describes her encounters with octopuses as special and unique, as not everyone has the same level of connection with these creatures. Her time spent in the water likely contributes to the number of unique encounters she has had with octopuses over the years.
Underwater cinematographer Maxwel Hohn, who worked with Janicki on the Giant Pacific Octopus story, explains that filming a shy creature that can seamlessly blend into its surroundings was a challenging but rewarding experience. Hohn recalls how the octopus they filmed seemed to choose to be with them, greeting them whenever they returned to its den and leading them on a tour of the reef. Working with the octopus and scientists involved in the production provided Janicki with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world, and she hopes to inspire others to respect and protect these incredible creatures and their habitats.
In her role in the National Geographic series, Janicki showcases her special connection with octopuses and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these creatures. Her passion for these marine animals and her dedication to raising awareness about their intelligence and beauty shine through in her work with the film crew. Janicki’s involvement in the series has allowed her to share her love for octopuses with a larger audience and to advocate for their preservation. She hopes that viewers will come away with a greater appreciation for octopuses and the ocean, and that they will be inspired to take action to protect these amazing creatures and their fragile ecosystems.
