A record number of grey seal pups has been confirmed at South Walney Nature Reserve as the breeding season approaches its end. The South Walney grey seal pup record reflects a notably early and active year at Cumbria’s only breeding grey seal colony.
Cumbria Wildlife Trust reported that at least 14 grey seal pups were born from late August. The pupping season traditionally takes place between October and mid November, yet the first pup this year was observed on 31 August. More than 563 seals were counted on site between September 2024 and March 2025.
The colony has expanded considerably over time. It grew from single figures in the 1980s and 90s to a level that now supports annual breeding. This year marks the 11th consecutive year in which pups have been recorded. The South Walney grey seal pup record underlines the long term trend of steady growth.
Alex Wright from North West Wildlife Trusts described the season as “really special” and said it was “amazing to have them here in Cumbria”. He noted that very young pups up to a month old are “really pale, almost white” before they “moult, grow bigger and begin making their way out to sea”. He added that “there might be a few more pups to come, we’ll have to wait and see.”
The team carrying out the counts worked carefully to remain undetected so that the seals would not see or smell them. Abi O’Leary, an intern at North West Wildlife Trusts, said: “The seals eat a lot of fish and when you’re surveying you can definitely smell that, it’s not the most pleasant smell.”
Several images captured by Cumbria Wildlife Trust show the seals resting on the beach among seaweed, cobbled stones and bright turquoise water. The trust also has special permission to fly drones at the reserve to assist with monitoring. A seal cam has been set up for those who want to observe the animals remotely. The South Walney grey seal pup record is supported by multiple monitoring approaches, enabling accurate counts while limiting disturbance.
Visitors are being urged to stay “at least 100m (328ft) away” from the animals. The trust warns that distressed seals may stampede, posing a risk to small pups that could be crushed.
The South Walney grey seal pup record highlights both the ecological importance of the site and the need for ongoing care to protect the growing colony.
