A Second Seal Pup Born in Brixham Marks a Huge Win for Grey Seal Conservation in Devon

A healthy young seal pup sheltered in a quiet cove, gaining strength before heading into the wild.

We’re thrilled to share some incredible news from the South Devon coast, a second grey seal pup has been recorded in Brixham this season!

After keeping the discovery under wraps for several weeks, our team can finally confirm that a healthy pup, affectionately named Pumpkin (2025ZZZZZZ), has been successfully weaned and is now living independently in the wild.

This marks the second Brixham pupping site recorded this season, and a major milestone for our ongoing work in grey seal conservation across Devon’s coastline.

Protecting Brixham’s Hidden Wildlife

A rare and intimate moment, a new grey seal pup safely tucked beside its mother on Brixham’s shoreline.

For the safety of the seals, the exact locations of pupping sites are kept confidential, ensuring these remarkable animals can thrive undisturbed.

Pumpkin’s mother, now officially identified as BRX578 (nicknamed “Beryl”), is a new addition to the regional identification catalogue further expanding our understanding of the local seal population.

Every new record helps build a clearer picture of how seals use our coastline, from breeding and feeding to raising pups safely in natural habitats.

Collaboration, Coastal Stewardship & Grey Seal Conservation Devon

After weeks of growth and learning, the pup takes its first steps toward life as an independent seal.

This discovery wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of local collaborators, including the brilliant Mr Fish, whose tireless data collection and on-site support have been instrumental to this success.

Our thanks also go to the Devon Environment Foundation, Brixham Town Council, Tor Bay Harbour Authority & Beaches, Rockfish Brixham, Devon Live, Torbay Weekly, and Devon Life Magazine for their continued advocacy of local conservation initiatives.

Each project like this is a team effort, one that highlights the power of community-driven science and shared passion for protecting our coastline.

Why It Matters

Grey seals are charismatic, intelligent, and vital to the health of our marine ecosystems. Each successful pup is a story of resilience and hope which is a sign that, with care and continued monitoring, these incredible creatures can thrive alongside our coastal communities.

Through patient observation, research, and local support, we’re learning more every season about how to safeguard these habitats for the future.

Support Our Work

The Cove’s field team, fuelled by coffee and commitment, after weeks of dedicated wildlife monitoring.

This discovery is part of our wider mission to protect South Devon’s marine life through research, education, and community engagement.

You can help us continue this work by supporting our Seagrass Protection Fundraiser or by shopping ethically at The Cove Lifestyle Store where every purchase helps fund real conservation projects like this one.

Together, we can protect the coastlines and wildlife that make Devon truly special. 💙