Seals Take Over Brixham Town

Brixham, a charming town in Devon, has become a notable destination for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly due to its thriving population of rare grey seals. Over the past decade, the number of these seals has increased significantly, turning the area into a unique tourist attraction. Sarah, a marine medic with the British Divers Marine Life Rescue and a volunteer for The Seal Project, highlighted the importance of these seals, particularly during the winter months when they are most visible in the harbour. The grey seals, primarily found in the UK, have been observed returning to Brixham year after year. Sarah mentioned a particular female seal that has been frequenting the area for years, often traveling to Cornwall to give birth before returning. While the reasons for their annual return remain unclear, it appears that the seals are adapting to their environment by utilizing manmade structures, such as pontoons and boats, as resting spots due to the lack of natural beaches. The Seal Project has recently gained recognition as a finalist in the BBC Make a Difference awards, which Sarah hopes will raise awareness about the seals and their significance in Brixham. The project aims to educate the public on the importance of these marine mammals and the need for their conservation. Visitors to Brixham can enjoy not only the sight of these seals but also the town's culinary offerings, including popular fish and chip shops like Rockfish, making for a delightful day of wildlife watching and local cuisine.