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'Beautiful' rare octopus spotted on popular Welsh beach

'Beautiful' rare octopus spotted on popular Welsh beach

Summary

A rare octopus was seen on a beach in Tenby, Wales by a photographer named Gareth Davies. This sighting is part of a larger trend of increased octopus sightings in UK waters, thought to be linked to warmer winters from climate change. The rise in octopus numbers may affect the shellfish populations and the wildlife charity has highlighted these changes.

Key Facts

  • An octopus was spotted on North Beach in Tenby, Wales by photographer Gareth Davies.
  • The octopus showed its ability to camouflage by changing color and burying itself in the sand.
  • There has been an increase in octopus sightings in the UK, with a notable rise since last year.
  • Warmer winters, which are linked to climate change, are believed to contribute to the increase in octopus populations.
  • The Wildlife Trusts report that 2025 has been declared "the Year of the Blooming Octopus" due to the increase in sightings.
  • Higher numbers of octopuses can impact local wildlife, particularly shellfish like lobsters and crabs.
  • The common octopus, despite its name, is not usually frequent in UK waters.
  • Two octopuses were previously found on Welsh beaches in 2022, highlighting a trend in sightings.

Source Information