Hundreds of blue sea creatures, commonly known as by-the-wind sailors (Velella velella), have washed up on beaches in Cumbria, including St Bees. These creatures, which are related to the Portuguese man o' war, have been observed in recent weeks.
Georgia de Jong Cleyndert, Head of Marine at the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, explained that while they resemble jellyfish, by-the-wind sailors are colonial hydrozoans. Each creature is a colony of tiny, specialised animals. She advised against touching them due to their mild sting, which remains even after they have washed ashore.
The species uses a small, stiff sail to move across the ocean surface. Large numbers can be washed onto shores, particularly after periods of strong onshore winds, according to Ms de Jong Cleyndert.