When I was a little kid, maybe 8 years old, I made my first visit to the Natural History Museum in New York City. I loved it. By far, my favorite space in the whole museum was the Hall of Ocean Life, with its massive sculpture of a Blue Whale hanging from the ceiling.
As a kid, it fascinated and terrified me. I was convinced it would fall any second and crush us all. Even to this day, every time I walk under it while visiting the museum, my step quickens slightly, and I say a little prayer.
Such is the power of first impressions.
Perhaps the one display that left the deepest impact was in the far corner of the lower part of the exhibit. There, enveloped in darkness, was a depiction of a squid and sperm whale entwined in battle. My eight-year-old self was terrified. I imagined being there with them in the depths of that dark, dark ocean. Despite being terrified, I could not look away.
Around the same time, I took my first trip to Disney World with my dad. We were visiting my grandparents for my birthday, and as a surprise, my Dad planned a day of adventure to the Magic Kingdom. At the time—around 1975—they still had the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea ride. Basically, you climb into the famous submarine The Nautilus and adventure on the high seas.
Towards the end of the ride, the Nautilus is attacked by a giant squid. Through my little portal, I saw the squid's huge eye staring in as it tried to crush our vessel. We slowly squeezed through, but that eye never stopped looking at me, tracking my escape.
I will never forget it.
Although I have great respect for all the different kinds of Cephalopods, the squid holds a special place in my heart. It has an extra thread of terror and little kid back-of-the-neck hair standing-on-end feelings, which is perfect—an extra dose of respect.
The Giant Squid is said to get up to 40 feet long. Can you imagine meeting one on your next swim in the ocean? They also have the largest eyes of any species in the world. Some squids even have light-producing organs called photophores to help attract prey.
So much to learn! We will share more amazing facts and stories in the coming weeks. In the meantime, check out one of our squid-themed items and enjoy!