New Research Reveals Adult Male Seals Behind Corkscrew Killings of Gray Seal Pups
Scientists Finally Found the Truth Behind the ‘Corkscrew’ Killings of Hundreds of Gray Seal Pups

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A long-standing mystery surrounding the deaths of gray seal pups on Sable Island, Canada, has been solved. Researchers found that adult male gray seals, not humans, are responsible for the gruesome corkscrew-style injuries observed on the pups, likely due to extreme hunger during breeding season.
- 01In 2024, researchers documented 765 dead gray seal pups with corkscrew-style injuries.
- 02On a single day in 2025, 359 carcasses were recorded, indicating a rise in violent incidents.
- 03Adult male gray seals attack pups during breeding season, motivated by hunger and competition for mates.
- 04The injuries were confirmed to be caused by seal bites and claw marks, not by human actions.
- 05The findings were published in Marine Mammal Science and highlighted by Science Magazine.
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A study published in Marine Mammal Science has uncovered the truth behind the mysterious corkscrew-style killings of gray seal pups on Sable Island, Canada. Initially suspected to be the work of humans, researchers have found that adult male gray seals are responsible for these brutal attacks. Marine ecologist Izzy Langley observed an adult bull seal attacking a pup, confirming suspicions that these killings were premeditated. In 2024, researchers recorded 765 dead pups, while in 2025, they noted 359 carcasses in one day, highlighting a troubling increase in such incidents. The injuries were characterized by spiral gashes, which were deeper than previously thought, revealing bite marks from large seals. The study suggests that these adult males may be resorting to cannibalism due to extreme hunger during the breeding season, as they compete for mates. This shocking revelation underscores the harsh realities of nature, where survival instincts can lead to horrifying behaviors among species.
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The findings highlight the ecological dynamics of gray seals and the impact of breeding behaviors on pup survival.
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