INVASION OF THE GIANT JELLYFISH
SWARMS of giant, venomous jellyfish are being spotted on our shorelines.
Now beach lovers are being warned to take care to avoid being stung – and take vinegar to the beach to treat any stings.
Many of the jellyfish have ended up off the coast of Llandudno, Anglesey, Conwy and Caernarfon.
Frankie Hobro, director of Anglesey Sea Zoo, said the reddish-orange Lion’s mane is the largest known jellyfish species and can grow as large as two metres (6ft 7ins) in diameter.
She urged people to take sachets of vinegar to the beach in case they are stung.
“Lion’s mane jellyfish are generally the most common species around the UK,” she said.
“They are brownish in colour with markings and can inflict a painful sting.
“People visiting the beach this summer should keep a look out for them when going in the sea. My advice would be to keep covered by wearing wetsuits and keep a look out for them.
“If you are stung, the best treatment is to immediately douse the whole area with vinegar as the acid relieves stinging and symptoms of all jellyfish stings. It is probably recommended to be on the safe side when visiting beaches in the summer if you are planning a paddle or a dip, to carry a few sachets of vinegar such as those found in chip shops.
“Although painful at the time, stings from these jel- lies, much like the sting from a bee or wasp, should ease within an hour or so and very rarely give any cause for concern or need further treatment. They do not leave any lasting scars or permanent damage.
“It is also advised to be wary of jellyfish when they are washed ashore and apparently dead, as they may remain alive for several hours after being washed up so their tentacles can still sting when out of the water.
“The best rule is to look but do not touch, even if you think it is a non-stinging species. If in doubt never touch any marine animal in or out of the water, as you are likely to get hurt yourself or to hurt the animal, or both.”
Lion’s Mane tentacles can trail more than 100 feet.