Record-breaking observations of a remarkably clever cephalopod during the summer season have led to the declaration of 2025 as the octopus's year in an annual review of Britain’s seas.
A mild winter followed by an exceptionally warm spring triggered a massive influx of *Octopus vulgaris* to establish themselves along the shores from Cornwall to Devon, spanning the Cornish and Devonian coasts.
“The reported landings was of the order of about over a dozen times what we would usually anticipate in this region,” stated an ocean conservation expert. “When we added up the numbers, approximately 233,000 octopuses were present in British seas this year – which is a significant rise from what is typical.”
The Mediterranean octopus is found in these waters but ordinarily in such small numbers it is seldom observed. A population bloom is caused by the dual effect of gentle winter conditions and favorable spring temperatures. This perfect scenario meant increased juvenile survival, potentially supported by abundant stocks of spider crabs seen in the area.
The most recent occasion, an octopus bloom comparable was documented in the mid-20th century, with archival data indicating the previous major event happened in the turn of the 20th century.
The remarkable abundance of octopuses meant they could be easily spotted in coastal areas for the first time in living memory. Diver videos show octopuses gathering in groups – they are usually solitary – and “walking” along the seabed on their tentacle tips. One creature was even filmed grabbing submarine recording equipment.
“During a first dive there this year I saw five octopuses,” they noted. “And these are big. There are two types in these waters. The curled octopus is smaller, football-sized, but the *Octopus vulgaris* can be reaching impressive sizes.”
A second gentle winter heading into next year meant it was possible another surge in 2026, because based on records, in similar situations, events have occurred consecutively for two consecutive years.
“However, it is unlikely, looking at history, that it will persist indefinitely,” they said. “The ocean is full of surprises currently so it’s hard to forecast.”
The report also celebrated further encouraging coastal sightings around the UK coastline, including:
Not everything was good news, however. “The year was bookended by marine incidents,” stated an expert. “A significant shipping incident in the North Sea and the release of industrial pellets off the Sussex coast served as stark reminders. Staff and volunteers are working tirelessly to defend and heal our coasts.”
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