Torbay's first ever grey seal pup discovered in hidden sea cave

Brixham has always been a place where the sea shapes our stories, from the proud fishing fleet to the wildlife that slips quietly through our coves.

But this winter, something extraordinary happened along our rugged coastline: the first ever documented grey seal pup was born in Brixham. And with it came a tale of resilience, discovery, and community spirit.

The newborn female pup, affectionately nicknamed Pumpkin by researchers, was first spotted on Halloween (31 October 2025), nestled deep within a sheltered sea cave. This discovery was made by Tristan Northway AKA Mr Fish.

This remarkable moment was not only a milestone for local conservationists, but it also marked a new chapter for Brixham’s coastal ecosystem. For decades, mothers have pupped in nearby regions, but never before has a birth been recorded right here in Brixham.

Now, thanks to careful monitoring by The Cove Discovery Project working closely with Tristan, we’ve had a front-row seat to the pup’s journey from birth to independence. 

A Hidden Nursery in the Rocks

The mother, also previously not recorded in any regional database, now known as BRX578 AKA Beryl, chose her nursery wisely, a remote and naturally protected cave, perfect for keeping the pup safe from weather, big tidal swells and wandering adult seals.

Because of its remote nature, observers used special remote GSM cameras and non-intrusive methods to ensure the seals were undisturbed. 

Inside this hidden refuge, Pumpkin’s early days were filled with exactly what any youngster needs: safety, nourishment, and attentive parenting.

Wrapped in a soft yellow coat called lanugo, the pup spent the first few days sleeping, nursing, and learning about the new world around her. Beryl the mother, remained close, nursing every two to three hours, and shielding her newborn from high tides and curious adult seals. 

Growing Strong, Day by Day

By day five, Pumpkin’s confidence, and curiosity blossomed. The pup began shuffling around the cave and even taking dips during big tidal surges. She played with kelp in the shallows, explored between cobbles, and gradually shifted from fluffy white fur to the sleek silvery-grey coat of an independent young seal. Through careful photo analysis, researchers tracked Pumpkin’s impressive growth reaching an estimated 32–35 kg by the time Beryl weaned it on day 18. 

This rapid development is a sign of excellent maternal care. Though life in a sea cave can be tough, with occasional flooding and rough seas Pumpkin thrived, showing healthy behaviour, strong mobility, and a natural curiosity about its world.

A Mother’s Watchful Eye

One of the most heartwarming insights from the monitoring project was the strong bond between Beryl and her pup. She defended the cave from other seals, and instinctively manoeuvred Pumpkin to safety when waves swept through and flooded the cave during the spring high water.

Even the local dominant bull, known as Butch, respected the nursery, he regularly lingered near the cave and eventually Beryl allowed him to stay and rest on the beach with them inside the cave. Beryl’s assertiveness ensured Pumpkin stayed safe. Beryl left the cave on day 18, leaving the pup to fend for herself, a normal departure of the maternal bond for grey seals.

A Celebration of Natures Health

By day 25, Pumpkin had shed almost all her baby fur and slipped off into the wider world a fully fledged young grey seal ready to begin life at sea. Her journey marks more than a personal milestone; it signals Brixham’s growing role as a haven for wildlife and a celebration of the stunning biodiversity around our coastline. Successful use of a local cave for pupping suggests a healthy natural environment, as seal are an indicator species. If they are present, the seas are in good condition and can sustain their health and welfare.

For families across Torbay, this discovery is a reminder of the magic right on our doorstep. It underscores the importance of giving wildlife space, protecting coastal habitats, and celebrating the natural wonders that choose to make their home here.

This winter, as you stroll along the cliffs or watch the waves roll into the Breakwater, take a moment to imagine a tiny pup named Pumpkin beginning its life just a few metres away, a symbol of hope, resilience, and Brixham’s deep connection with the sea.

A full research and data report on the Pumpkins growth and development by The Cove Discovery Project can be downloaded for free at: https://www.thecovediscoveryproject.com/_files/ugd/c6f9f9_89bd4147659643cda2318cf4927449b0.pdf

Or go to their website research page: https://www.thecovediscoveryproject.com/research