Who Is Barry, the Cape Cod Kraken?

The common Atlantic kraken, despite its fearsome appearance and some bad PR, is actually quite shy and prefers to remain hidden in the dark, icy depths, curled up contentlly beside a favorite shipwreck. But then there's Barry. He's always been a bit, shall we say, different. He likes people watching, beaches, and the feel of the sun on his tentacles. So if, in your travels, you happen to spot a massive tentacle waving from behind a ferry or emerging from the surf at Smuggler's Beach, don't be alarmed. He means no harm - he's just looking to say hello!

No one knows exactly how old Barry is or how long he's been coming to the Cape. The first sighting ever recorded was in November of 1620 by the Mayflower as it approached what would later be known as Provincetown, though log-books attribute this sighting to possible delusion due to the long and arduous voyage. These days, you never know where he might show up, so keep your camera ready.

TIPS REGARDING BARRY ENCOUNTERS:

1. Do NOT be alarmed. He means no harm. He is relentessly friendly and peaceful; however, he possesses zero concept of his size. Think of him as a giant, squishy pile of curiousity. If he lifts your boat from the water or tries to climb aboard, a gentle but firm "Barry, No!" will usually do the trick.

2. Secure all shiny/bright colored objects. Just like a toddler or a kitten, Barry is attracted to anything eye-catching. After all, look at those eyes! And if you're wearing a hi-vis vest or having a bonfire on the beach, you might just get a tentacle tap on the shoulder.

3. Barry is drawn to bright or flashing lights and also to loud music. Rock, jazz, folk, country, K-pop, metal, he doesn't care, so long as you TURN IT UP! If you're throwing a party, expect Barry to crash it - literally!

4. If you need to coax Barry from some inconvient spot, you can easily redirect him with a laser pointer. But be prepared, chasing the red dot is one of his favorite games and once you start, he won't want you to stop.