It seems these open ocean drifters are slowly being blown up the Irish Sea, as this week five Portuguese Man-o-War (Physalia physalis) have been found washed up at Biggar Bank on Walney Island, Cumbria.
These jellyfish-like animals normally live in the open seas but strong and persistent south westerly winds and autumnal storms are causing them to be washed ashore. Sightings of Portuguese Man-o-War occur every few years in the UK but are rare this far north in the Irish Sea.
Senior Marine Conservation Officer for the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Dr Emily Baxter says: “If they have washed up on Walney Island it is highly likely that they will also appear on other beaches across the North West.”