What is the plot?

The episode "Nubbins" begins with a scene in a dark, abandoned building where a group of people is seen being attacked by a creature. The creature is revealed to be a small, monstrous being known as a "Nubbin." The scene sets a tense atmosphere as the creature's viciousness is highlighted through its swift movements and the terrified reactions of its victims.

Cut to the Sanctuary, where Dr. Helen Magnus and her team, including Will Zimmerman and Ashley Magnus, are discussing the recent attacks attributed to the Nubbins. They are concerned about the safety of the local population and the potential for the creatures to spread. Helen expresses her determination to capture one of the Nubbins for study, believing that understanding them could lead to a solution.

The team prepares for a field mission to locate the Nubbins. Will is apprehensive about the dangers they might face, but Helen reassures him, emphasizing the importance of their work. They gather equipment and set out to the location of the latest attack, where they hope to find clues about the creatures' behavior and habitat.

Upon arriving at the site, the team splits up to search for signs of the Nubbins. Ashley and Will explore the area, while Helen investigates a nearby building. As they search, they discover evidence of the Nubbins' presence, including remnants of their attacks. Tension builds as they hear strange noises, indicating that the creatures are nearby.

Suddenly, they encounter a Nubbin, which attacks them. The creature is small but ferocious, displaying agility and strength that surprises the team. Will and Ashley work together to fend off the creature, using their training to subdue it. They manage to capture the Nubbin, but not without sustaining some injuries in the process. The adrenaline of the encounter leaves them shaken but determined.

Back at the Sanctuary, Helen examines the captured Nubbin. She is fascinated by its physiology and behavior, noting its unique adaptations. However, she also realizes that the creature is not inherently evil; it is simply acting on instinct. This revelation prompts her to consider the ethical implications of their research and the treatment of such creatures.

As the team continues their investigation, they learn that the Nubbins are not alone; there are more of them in the area. They discover that the creatures are being driven from their natural habitat due to human encroachment. This realization shifts the team's perspective, as they begin to understand the broader context of the Nubbins' behavior.

In a climactic moment, the team decides to return to the site of the initial attack to confront the larger group of Nubbins. They prepare for a more strategic approach, aiming to relocate the creatures rather than eliminate them. Helen leads the charge, driven by her commitment to protecting both the creatures and the people affected by them.

The final confrontation occurs when the team encounters a nest of Nubbins. The creatures swarm, and a chaotic battle ensues. The team uses their skills to navigate the fray, working together to avoid injury while trying to capture as many Nubbins as possible. The scene is filled with tension as they balance the need to protect themselves with their mission to save the creatures.

Ultimately, the team successfully captures several Nubbins and manages to relocate them to a safer environment. The episode concludes with Helen reflecting on the experience, recognizing the complexity of the relationship between humans and the creatures they often fear. The emotional weight of their actions lingers as they consider the implications of their work and the responsibility they hold in the Sanctuary.

What is the ending?

In the ending of "Nubbins," the team at the Sanctuary successfully captures the creature known as the Nubbins, which had been terrorizing a small town. They manage to contain it and bring it back to the Sanctuary for study. The episode concludes with a sense of relief as the immediate threat is neutralized, but it also leaves lingering questions about the nature of the creatures they protect and the ethical implications of their work.

As the episode draws to a close, the Sanctuary team reflects on their experiences. Dr. Helen Magnus, the leader, shows a mix of satisfaction and concern, understanding the complexities of their mission. Will Zimmerman, the forensic psychiatrist, grapples with the moral dilemmas presented by the Nubbins and the creatures they encounter. The episode ends on a note of contemplation, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between humanity and the unknown.


The episode "Nubbins" begins with a tense atmosphere in a small town plagued by mysterious disappearances. The Sanctuary team, led by Dr. Helen Magnus, receives reports of strange creatures attacking residents. The urgency of the situation is palpable as they prepare to investigate. Magnus, driven by her commitment to protect both humans and the creatures, gathers her team, including Will Zimmerman and Henry Foss.

As they arrive in the town, the team splits up to gather information. Will interviews frightened townsfolk, who describe the Nubbins as small, grotesque creatures that seem to be causing chaos. The fear in their voices highlights the danger the creatures pose, and Will's determination to understand the situation deepens. Meanwhile, Magnus and Henry search for clues, showcasing their expertise and teamwork.

The tension escalates when the team encounters the Nubbins in a dark, abandoned building. The creatures are small, with sharp teeth and a menacing demeanor. A confrontation ensues, and the team must use their skills to subdue the Nubbins without harming them. Magnus's leadership shines as she coordinates the effort, emphasizing the importance of capturing rather than killing the creatures.

After a harrowing struggle, the team successfully captures a few Nubbins and brings them back to the Sanctuary. The emotional weight of the encounter weighs heavily on Will, who reflects on the nature of the creatures and their place in the world. He grapples with the ethical implications of their work, questioning whether they are truly protecting the creatures or merely containing them.

Back at the Sanctuary, Magnus examines the captured Nubbins, revealing her fascination with their biology and behavior. The scene is filled with a sense of wonder and curiosity, as she seeks to understand the creatures rather than fear them. This moment underscores her commitment to her mission and her belief in the potential for coexistence between humans and the unknown.

As the episode concludes, the team gathers to discuss their findings. Magnus expresses her relief that they were able to contain the threat, but there is an underlying tension as they acknowledge the complexities of their work. Will's internal conflict is evident as he contemplates the implications of their actions, while Henry provides a more pragmatic perspective.

The episode ends with a sense of unresolved tension, as the team recognizes that their journey is far from over. The fate of the Nubbins remains uncertain, and the Sanctuary's mission continues to challenge their beliefs and values. Each character leaves the scene with a mix of relief and contemplation, setting the stage for future conflicts and moral dilemmas in their ongoing quest to protect both humanity and the creatures they encounter.

Is there a post-credit scene?

In the episode "Nubbins" from Season 1 of Sanctuary, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The focus remains on the main storyline and character developments throughout the episode, which centers around the discovery of a new creature and the challenges faced by the Sanctuary team.

What creatures are referred to as 'Nubbins' in the episode?

In the episode 'Nubbins', the term refers to small, childlike creatures that are a hybrid of human and animal DNA. They are depicted as innocent and playful, yet they possess a dangerous side due to their unpredictable nature.

How does Dr. Helen Magnus react to the Nubbins when she first encounters them?

Dr. Helen Magnus initially shows a mix of curiosity and concern when she encounters the Nubbins. She is fascinated by their unique characteristics but is also aware of the potential danger they pose, reflecting her protective instincts as a caretaker of abnormal creatures.

What is the significance of the Nubbins' behavior in the episode?

The Nubbins exhibit childlike behavior, which highlights their innocence and vulnerability. However, their unpredictable actions also serve as a reminder of the consequences of genetic experimentation, showcasing the duality of their existence as both innocent beings and potential threats.

How does Will Zimmerman’s perspective on the Nubbins evolve throughout the episode?

Will Zimmerman starts off viewing the Nubbins with skepticism and fear, but as he interacts with them, he begins to see their innocence and the tragic circumstances of their creation. This shift in perspective leads him to advocate for their protection rather than viewing them solely as threats.

What role does the character of Ashley Magnus play in the episode 'Nubbins'?

Ashley Magnus plays a crucial role in the episode as she helps to care for the Nubbins and protect them from external threats. Her interactions with the creatures reveal her compassionate nature and her commitment to her mother's mission of safeguarding the abnormal.

Is this family friendly?

In "Nubbins," the sixth episode of Sanctuary's first season, there are several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

  1. Violence and Threats: The episode features scenes where characters are in danger, including moments of physical confrontation and threats from creatures. The tension can be intense, which might be unsettling for younger viewers.

  2. Monsters and Creatures: The presence of various abnormal creatures, including the titular "Nubbins," can be frightening. Their appearance and behavior may evoke fear or anxiety.

  3. Emotional Distress: Characters experience fear and concern for their safety and the safety of others, which can be emotionally charged and may resonate with sensitive viewers.

  4. Dark Themes: The episode touches on themes of survival and the moral dilemmas faced when dealing with dangerous beings, which may be complex for younger audiences to understand.

These aspects contribute to a darker tone that may not be suitable for all children or sensitive individuals.