Canaries beach forced to close after invasion of dangerous sea creatures

Authorities in Lanzarote were forced to close a beach after deadly sea creatures were spotted in the waters. Lifeguards evacuated La Cantería beach in Órzola, after sightings of so-called blue dragons.

The beautiful but highly poisonous sea slugs are coloured metallic blue and silver and are a wonder to behold. However, they are strictly off limits and can cause serious illness in a human being even if they are just touched. The blue dragon (Glaucus atlanticus) feeds on venomous jellyfish, such as the Portuguese man o' war, and stores their toxins in its own body. A single sting can cause severe pain, skin irritation, vomiting, fever, and, in some cases, more serious allergic reactions.

Sea slugs normally live on the sea floor, but blue dragons swallow a little air bubble, which allows them to float on the ocean surface.

Measuring typically "3cm or just over one inch in length," according to One Earth, the "ornate" creatures are found on the surface of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans.

The blue dragons have already made an appearance this summer in the waters around the Canary Islands. In recent weeks, conditions at sea - including winds and currents - have carried them to various parts of the Lanzarote coastline.

They were also recently spotted in El Médano and Leocadio Machado beaches in Tenerife, prompting warnings from local authorities.

Last Wednesday, swimming was banned along a seven-mile stretch of coast around Guardamar del Segura area just north of Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca.

Jose Luis Saez, the mayor of Guardamar del Segura, said in a post on X: "Bathing is prohibited following the appearance on Vivers Beach of two specimens of Glaucus atlanticus, known as the Blue Dragon".

Anyone who is stung by a blue dragon should first of all rinse the affected area with seawater, before removing any tentacle fragments with a stick or gloves.

A cold pack should be applied to reduce swelling. In the event of breathing difficulties, dizziness, or a severe allergic reaction, medical attention should be sought.