Swarms of powerful jellyfish are descending on beaches across the British Isles as they continue to be gripped by a heatwave.
While marine life is no stranger to British waters, sightings of the infamous lion’s mane species have increased dramatically as our seas begin to warm up.
Lion’s mane jellyfish can grow longer than a blue whale and have the most severe sting of any jellyfish species found in British waters, often resulting in their victims being hospitalised.
A lion’s mane jellyfish spotted by Ann Dunne in Ireland as swarms of powerful jellyfish descend on beaches in the British Isles
This barrel jellyfish was spotted by Mark Turner on Rhossili Beach in Swansea, South Wales
A lion’s mane jellyfish spotted by Lindsey Becket in Kames Bay on the Isle of Cumbrae in Scotland
And the venomous creatures have become increasingly common in recent years as global warming has made our ocean environment more attractive to them.
Dr Peter Richardson, head of ocean recovery at the Marine Conservation Society, said: ‘Our national survey has shown a significant recent increase in the number of jellyfish species in UK seas, particularly the barrel jellyfish.
Lion’s mane jellyfish spotted by Charlie Farrell in Anglesey, Wales
“The million dollar question is why is this happening? At the moment we just don’t know.”
Lion’s mane jellyfish have been spotted in Blackpool, Anglesey and Galway following the mass beaching of hundreds of barrel jellies in Weymouth, Dorset, last week. The creatures can grow up to 90cm wide and weigh up to 25kg.
With 6ft long tentacles hanging down from them, they can deliver a powerful sting even after they have washed ashore.
Several of the jelly-like creatures washed up on beaches along the west coast of Lancashire last month – including in Blackpool – while large numbers were spotted in Hythe, Kent, over the weekend, with some swimmers even stung.
Three were hospitalised after being stung by lion’s manes in Galway, Ireland, during warm weather last month. One woman was stung in the face, prompting the lifeguard on duty to raise a red flag and warn people not to enter the water.
Ten of the creatures were spotted floating in coastal waters during a 4km swim in Galway Bay by a member of a triathlon group.
Jellyfish are most commonly found in warm, shallow waters near beaches. Most species found in the UK can only cause a mild sting.
However, if you see them in large clusters, known as blooms, it is advisable to get out of the water as soon as possible.
If you are stung, get out of the water and carefully remove any stingers with tweezers before covering the affected area with vinegar or soaking it in hot water.