Rainbow wrack ©Helen Earwicker
Our marine work
Marine wildlife in Devon
Devon is the only county in England with two separate coasts, and our coastal waters are among the most diverse in the UK. From rocky shores and seagrass beds to kelp forests and open water, our seas are home to an extraordinary range of wildlife.
Learn, explore and get involved
Wembury Marine Centre is one of the best places to discover Devon’s amazing marine wildlife. Inside, you’ll find interactive activities, beautiful underwater imagery and fascinating stories about the marine life found along our coast.
Throughout the summer, the centre hosts fun and informative events including rockpool safaris, snorkel safaris and family activities, helping people of all ages connect with the sea.
A living world beneath the waves
So much of Devon’s brightest, weirdest and most wonderful wildlife remains hidden from view, living in the world beneath the waves.
Our seas support an incredible variety of species, from colourful anemones and curious crabs to seals, dolphins, cuttlefish and rare seabirds. Discover some of our favourite Devon marine species below, or visit our wildlife explorer page to find out what else lives along our shores and beneath the surface.
What to do if you find a stranded marine animal
Autumn and winter storms can bring more marine animals onto our shores. Finding a stranded animal can be distressing, but knowing what to do can make a real difference.
If the animal is alive, please contact British Divers Marine Life Rescue immediately:
Office hours: 01825 765546
Out of hours: 07787 433412Do you know what to do if you see a marine stranding?
Keep your distance, and keep other people and dogs away.
If the animal is dead, please contact Devon Marine Strandings Network:
Phone: 07719 086531
Email: strandings@devonwildlifetrust.org
Save these numbers in your phone and help spread the word by downloading our marine strandings leaflet.
Take part in Shoresearch
Shoresearch is The Wildlife Trusts’ national citizen science survey of the intertidal shore — the exciting world of extremes where the sea meets the land.
It’s a brilliant way to explore your local coast, learn more about the wildlife found there, and help improve our understanding of this important habitat.
Volunteers are trained to identify and record wildlife on shores across the UK. The data collected helps experts monitor fragile marine life and understand the effects of pollution, climate change and invasive non-native species.
Shoresearch data has also played an important role in helping to designate many of our Marine Conservation Zones.
Whether you’re new to marine wildlife or already love exploring the coast, Shoresearch is a great way to make your time by the sea count.
To get involved look out for our latest training opportunities here
Follow the Seashore Code
