Found thousands of these translucent blue, plastic-looking ovals washed up on the beach today. They have a stiff fin on top and blue jelly underneath. Are they dangerous?

Why Are There So Many?

Mass strandings of Velella velella are not unusual. They tend to occur seasonally, especially after strong winds or storms push them toward land. Because they float rather than swim, they have little control over where they go.

Sometimes, entire coastlines can be covered with them, turning beaches into a blue, otherworldly landscape.

Are They Dangerous?

The good news: Velella velella are generally not dangerous to humans.

They do possess tiny stinging cells (like their jellyfish relatives), which they use to capture microscopic prey. However, these stings are typically too mild to affect human skin. Most people can touch them without any reaction.

That said, a few precautions are still wise:

• Avoid touching your eyes or face after handling them
• Wash your hands afterward
• People with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation

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