Jellyfish invade UK tourist spot as visitors warned of nasty sting
JELLYFISH have invaded a popular UK tourist spot, with visitors warned of a nasty sting.
The critters have washed up at Clevedon’s Marine Lake near Bristol in an unpleasant “surprise” for swimmers.
Painful stings could be in store for anyone who gets too close, as the creatures inject venom that can cause intense burning sensations.
Experts say people should not be too alarmed – but warned them to remain on alert.
The Marine Lake Enthusiasts Society even insisted visitors should continue to use the lake – and yet be careful.
Group member Joe Norman said: “We are aware of a number of jellyfish in Marine Lake.
“It is more of a surprise than a problem. But the lake is its own ecosystem and part of the Severn Estuary and what lives in there, lives in the lake.
“There are lots of people using the lake in this hot weather. I think the fact that the jellyfish are there is more of an issue for the jellyfish than the humans.
“Although the jellyfish can sting they are not a threat to humans and people should continue to use the lake as they wish.”
The jellyfish are expected to stick around for the summer in Clevedon, which was previously a setting used for ITV drama Broadchurch starring the likes of David Tennant, Olivia Colman and Jodie Whittaker.
This time of year can prove of interest to jellyfish-spotters along the Somerset coast, according to the Bristol Post – with the Marine Conservation Society among those taking a keen interest.
There have also been recent jellyfish warnings in the Welsh seaside village of Fairbourne in Gwynedd – as well as further afield in Spanish holiday island resort Ibiza.
The sting of the barrel jellyfish is not normally harmful to humans yet advice from the Wildlife Trusts is not to handle any if found on the beach since they can still sting when dead.
In deeper waters they can grow up to 150cm, making them the largest jellyfish in UK waters.
During May and June they move to warmer coastal waters in order to feed on plankton.
They then can often wash up on beaches having underestimated tides and wave strengths.
The presence of the jellyfish in turn attracts predators such as the leatherback turtles, the world’s largest sea turtle.
Jellyfish were also the subject of a revelation on BBC nature programme Springwatch this week which left viewers horrified.