Blue 'Hydra Jellyfish' Covering the Beach... US Authorities Warn "Do Not Touch Under Any Circumstances"

Presumed to Have Been Carried by Repeated Storms

A swarm of hydroids with blue and pale purple hues has appeared on a beach in California, USA, surprising local residents.

The Point Reyes National Seashore in central-southern San Francisco released photos on Facebook on the 5th (local time) showing small blue marine creatures widely spread across the beach. The photos depict a unique scene resembling blue paint splattered across the area.

A swarm of hydra worms appearing on a beach in California, USA. [Image source=Point Reyes National Seashore Facebook]

The Seashore explained that these creatures are "flat, oval-shaped hydroids called 'Velella velella'." Classified as cousins of jellyfish, these marine animals normally live in the ocean but are pushed ashore by strong winds, earning them the nickname "By the wind sailors." They feed on zooplankton and algae in the sea.

Experts believe that recent record-breaking storms in California have brought strong winds that pushed these marine creatures onto the beach. California, usually known for its good weather, has been experiencing severe weather conditions such as heavy rain, snowstorms, and tornadoes since last winter, causing flooding and landslides in local communities.

Local broadcaster KTLA also reported on the 10th (local time) that these hydroids have been frequently spotted on beaches recently and warned people "not to touch them." Like jellyfish, hydroids have tentacles and can sting if touched. However, they rarely sting and are not considered dangerous to humans.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.