Brits have flocked to the coast this summer to escape the intense heatwaves. However, along with beach enthusiasts, numerous remarkable creatures have also been drawn to the shores. These unique electric blue animals, believed to be Velella Velella, commonly known as by-the-wind sailors, have been discovered washed up on beaches as the temperatures soared.
At St Bees beach in Cumbria, beachgoers recently observed several of these creatures, while a multitude were found along the Welsh coastline earlier in the season. Although these animals are closely related to the potentially dangerous Portuguese Man o’ War, with stings that can cause severe reactions, Velella Velella are considered less harmful but still advised not to be touched.
Typically inhabiting the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans, these creatures have been appearing in the UK due to the recent spike in temperatures, reaching nearly 40C in some areas. Despite the ongoing warm weather, a shift to unsettled conditions is predicted for the upcoming week.
Experts anticipate that more of these electric blue creatures will be sighted by beach visitors throughout the summer. One beachgoer, Louise Nicholson, shared her surprise at encountering them, mistaking one for seaweed during a visit to St Bees beach.
Described by marine biologists as “alien jellyfish,” these creatures, often seen in autumn and winter elsewhere, are now being encountered in greater numbers along the UK coasts. Although not considered dangerous, they possess a mild sting even after being washed ashore, emphasizing the importance of refraining from touching them.
Frankie Hobro, a marine specialist, highlighted that while the sting of these creatures is generally mild compared to the Portuguese Man o’ War, caution should still be exercised to avoid any potential discomfort. She emphasized the importance of covering up when in the sea to prevent any accidental contact with these creatures.
By-the-wind-sailors, categorized as “colonial hydroids,” consist of a colony of tiny individual animals and are not true jellyfish. The increasing sightings of Portuguese Man o’ War alongside these creatures earlier and more frequently suggest the impact of climate change on ocean currents, according to marine experts.