February 9, 2007—A leopard may not be able to change its spots. A cyanea octopus, on the other hand, can change its colors and skin texture in the blink of an eye.

By contracting muscles that enlarge or shrink pigment cells called chromatophores, the cyanea can rapidly blend into its surroundings to avoid predators and stalk prey.

Watch one of these "masters of disguise" change from a humble rock formation to a deadly tent, and get a sneak peek under the octopus's spread tentacles to see how the cephalopod enjoys a crab snack.