‘FLOATING TERROR’ WARNING
BEACHGOERS are being warned after Portuguese men of war have washed up on the region’s shores in recent weeks.
Often mistaken for jellyfish, the creatures are actually a colony of hydrozoans – so a “they” rather than an “it” – and have been pictured on beaches across Gwynedd and Anglesey.
Blue and purple in colour with tentacles that are typically over 10 metres long, Portuguese men of war – also known as Physalia physalis and Floating Terror – are known to pack an extremely powerful sting which can be dangerous to humans.
Their tentacles are toxic and they should not be touched by anyone who comes across them. They can also be fatal to dogs.
Sightings of Physalia physalis are relatively rare in the UK and experts say their presence on North Wales beaches is likely to be down to strong south-westerly winds .
Their name derives from their resemblance to man-of-war warships.
Gwynedd Council has issued a warning to all visitors to Gwynedd beaches to be extremely vigilant. Barry Davies, the council’s maritime officer, said: “If you come across a Portuguese Man-o-War, please do not touch it. The tentacles are toxic and will cause a painful sting. If anyone gets stung, seek medical help immediately and report the incident to the council’s maritime service.”
Sightings should be reported to the maritime service on 01758 704 066.