Massive wave of ‘alien like’ blue sea creatures washed ashore UK beaches

Thousands of electric blue sea creature reported across UK beaches

The creatures have been dubbed ‘alien jelly fish’ due to their uncommon color and appearance. 

What are thought to be Velella Velella have come crashing on St Bees beach in Cumbria, as opposed to Portugal.

The blue critters, commonly known as By-the-wind Sailors, are electric blue in color with a ‘sail’ atop their heads, which they use to trail across oceans.

These are closely related to the Portuguese Man o’ War, another species typically found on Portugal’s coastlines.

The Man o’ War also bears a sail-like structure atop of its head to travel through rough water, however it poses a far greater danger to those who come in contact with it. 

While Velella Velella might sting you a little upon touching it, they are regarded as generally safe to be around or even handle.

However beachgoers have been advised not to come in contact with them.

Close-up of a By the Wind Sailor or Velella Velella. Image: Getty.

“They only wash up after prolonged gales and storms,” said conservationist Steve Trewhella. 

“Because they travel in the same way, in theory Portuguese Man o’ War could come in as well.

“That would be something to worry about. They pose a real threat and can kill people in the water.

“We are noticing a trend in these unusual marine animals coming into our shores on a more regular basis recently. It’s because our weather appears to be changing.”

Trewhella added: “Velella velella are deep blue or purple in colour and often cause confusion if they wash in, in vast numbers, creating a blue beach.”

The sight was one to be seen according to Louise Nicholson, who mistook the By-the-wind Sailors for seaweed at first.

“There were hundreds of them and there were lots of visitors to the area taking photos,” she said speaking to the BBC.

“They are absolutely beautiful, only about 2 inches in size. It was a great find on a beautiful day.”

With temperatures rising over 35 degrees over the weekend and into Monday, the visits of Velella Velella has raised alarms on frequent overlapping of creatures on the UK’s coastline.

Despite temperatures higher than on Greek islands, the Met Office forecasts high 20s to low 30s in the coming week.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) alerts regarding the coastlines through Wednesday.