Blue Sea Creatures Wash Up on Welsh Coastline

Velella velella: A Beautiful Mystery

Hundreds of Velella velella, commonly known as by-the-wind sailors, have been spotted along the Welsh coastline, from Anglesey to Tenby.

These free-floating hydrozoans are a sight to behold, with their small sail-like structures that catch the wind and propel them across the ocean’s surface.

A Crystal-like Discovery

Nature lover Maxine Allinson was walking on Tenby South beach when she stumbled upon one of these creatures for the first time.

“It was fantastic,” she said, describing the experience as “so beautiful.”

The by-the-wind sailors are often mistaken for their larger cousins, the Portuguese man o’ war, but they have a unique charm of their own.

A Splash of Color on the Shore

Marine specialist Frankie Hobro, from Anglesey Sea Zoo, explained that these creatures are known for their bright blue color and are generally harmless.

“You get these blue tides of by-the-wind sailors, and when the sunlight hits them, it’s stunning,” she said.

Hobro added that while they may look delicate, these sailors are resilient travelers, often appearing in autumn and winter, carried by ocean currents.

A Cautionary Tale

Despite their beauty, Hobro warns beachgoers not to touch the by-the-wind sailors due to their stinging cells.

Although their sting is considered mild compared to the Portuguese man o’ war, it can still cause discomfort, especially on sensitive areas.

So, while you admire these beautiful creatures from a distance, remember to respect their space and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.