Save Newport Real News in Newport Beach
Early yesterday morning, and doubtlessly some today, hundreds upon hundred of these By-The-Wind-Sailors washed ashore.
The creatures are also known by their scientific binomial nomenclature, Velella velella.
Each hydroid colony is carnivorous and feeds off plankton, but pose no risk to humans. They are rare to find on land and tend to dry up quickly in the sunshine, resembling discarded plastic. Before that happens, though, they often fall prey to birds.
These creature colonies are essentially jellyfish flipped upside down, with their “stingers” instead being used as sails. They are normally and frequently found far out to sea, and are propelled across the ocean mostly by those very sails.
Their presence in OC Beaches usually indicates a coming increase in ocean temps, “Our little friends Velella or By-the-Wind-Sailors are back. Could be a sign of warm coming.” says Brent Jacobsen, Newport Beach Marine Safety Battalion Chief
Have you seen these rarities?
