Britons are puzzled by the appearance of numerous extraordinary alien-like creatures that have washed up on various beaches along the Welsh coast.
The strikingly beautiful blue sea creatures, identified as Velella Velella or by-the-wind sailors, have been observed along the shoreline. These creatures, closely linked to the Portuguese Man o’ War, are typically found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans.
Local residents have described the creatures as resembling crystals and reported seeing numerous specimens scattered across beaches in Anglesey and along the west Gwynedd coast. In Barmouth, hundreds were found on the town’s beach.
The unexpected influx of these “blue tide” creatures surprised many beach visitors, with some comparing them to alien jellyfish. One individual remarked that they were among the most peculiar things ever washed ashore.
Although these creatures are relatively common, they are usually sighted in the autumn and winter months. Marine expert Frankie Hobro from Anglesey Sea Zoo cautioned that while their stings are generally mild compared to the Portuguese man o’ war, it is advisable not to touch them.
By-the-wind sailors, characterized by their electric blue hue, are colonial hydroids, comprised of a colony of tiny individual animals rather than being true jellyfish. Measuring about 7cm in length, they possess a small sail that catches the wind, enabling them to drift wherever the wind carries them.
Frankie highlighted that these creatures are typically less noticeable as they are blown in during winter storms. Their appearance in June, later than usual, may be attributed to warm weather in late May followed by unsettled conditions in early June.
The co-occurrence of Portuguese Man o’ War arriving earlier and more frequently, alongside creatures like By-the-wind sailors, indicates the impact of climate change on ocean currents.
