Beachgoers and dog owners are being urged to exercise caution at Noordhoek Beach after blue bottles and blue dragons were reported along the shoreline, Cape {town} Etc reports.
A warning shared by Deep South Report last night, Friday, 23 October, alerted visitors to the presence of the marine creatures, which can sting even when they appear dead or washed ashore.
The warning advised beachgoers to avoid walking barefoot near the high-water line, where detached tentacles may be concealed in wet sand and seaweed.
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Dog owners were also urged to keep their pets on short leads and away from stranded marine life, as contact with the creatures can cause painful stings to their paws and mouths.
More info about blue bottles and blue dragons
Blue bottles are marine organisms known for their painful stings. Blue dragons are small sea slugs that feed on blue bottles and can concentrate the stinging cells they ingest, making contact potentially painful. The warning stressed that stranded specimens should never be handled, regardless of whether they appear alive.
Parents were encouraged to keep children away from the creatures, while anyone experiencing a severe reaction after a sting should seek urgent medical assistance.
It remains unclear whether the marine life will still be present on the beach in the coming days. Visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow any guidance from lifeguards or local authorities.
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Picture: agwilt / iNaturalist
