'Incredible' blue sea creatures appear on beaches
Hundreds of blue, sail-like creatures known as Velella velella have washed up on beaches in Cumbria, UK. Experts warn that while they are not jellyfish, they are colonial hydrozoans that can deliver a mild sting and should not be touched.
Why it matters
This phenomenon highlights local marine biodiversity and serves as a public safety reminder regarding coastal wildlife interactions.
Image source, Louise Nicholson Image caption, Hundreds of by-the-wind-sailors have washed up on beaches in Cumbria
Hundreds of "incredible" blue sea creatures have washed up on beaches in Cumbria.
Velella velella, commonly known as by-the-wind sailors and closely related to the Portuguese man o' war, have been spotted on St Bees beach in recent weeks.
Their nickname comes from the small stiff sail which they use to catch the wind and propel them along an ocean's surface.
Resident Louise Nicholson initially thought the creatures - which can sting - were seaweed and "almost picked one up" before she began to take pictures.
She said: "There were hundreds of them and there were lots of visitors to the area taking photos.
"They are absolutely beautiful, only about 2ins (5cm) in size. It was a great find on a beautiful day."
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