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Octopus in a BottleA veined octopus uses a discarded bottle for shelter on the sea floor off the Philippines in a photo released in September.Veined octopuses have been observed using coconut shells as tools. Researchers reported the animals digging up the two halves of a coconut shell, then using them as protective shielding when stopping in exposed areas or when resting in sediment.Why We Love It"This stately portrait must have quite the story behind it. I can't see an octopus immediately trusting anyone."—Chris Combs, news photo editor —Korena Di Roma(Also see: "Pictures We Love: Best of August.")
Photograph by Jeffrey de Guzman, Your Shot

Pictures We Love: Best of September

See National Geographic photo editors' favorite news pictures of the month-a tool-using octopus, a giant typhoon wave, and more.

Published October 1, 2011