Octopus intelligence is well documented. They can navigate complex mazes, use tools, learn from each other, solve all kinds of puzzles and may even be able to dream!

Octopus behavior has gone viral on the internet, showcasing their escape artistry with their ability to body morph and use camouflage. What is new in the world of octopus research is the extent to which these intelligent animals are individual personalities - able to recognize faces and interact with other individuals - all of which is an odd adaptation for an animal thought to live an asocial existence.

NATURE follows this new science through the story of an octopus named "Heidi" and her evolving relationship with a passionate marine biologist and his teenage daughter. Professor David Scheel of the Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage links his discoveries to octopus findings from all over the world and explores how we and a creature so different from us could have so much in common.