Masses of ephemeral organisms — known as ‘by-the-wind sailors’ — wash up in a ‘blue tide’ on the west coast most years, but warmer winter seas could be increasing their numbers
By Katharine Gammon
Friday, the 5th of April, 2024
From Oregon to California, blankets of alien-like blue creatures are washing up on rocky beaches. They are Velella velella, tiny colonies of organisms with a sombrero-esque fin sticking out the top and tentacles dangling down.
Millions have been spotted along the US west coast this spring, much to the surprise and delight of beachgoers who have gleefully posted footage on social media. Some call it a “blue tide” and it happens most springs – but not always to the same degree of abundance
[Ed: This part will only show on the web, but you won’t hear it!]