CAPE TOWN – Beach-goers are urged to practice caution as reports circulated of several Blue Dragon slugs washed ashore on Muizenberg Beach on Thursday morning 29 January.
Sightings of these sea slugs were documented in the Deep South Report (DSR), issued on the group’s Facebook page today.
Blue Dragon slugs scientifically known as Glaucus atlanticus, are highly venomous, measure under 3 cm, contain wing-like limbs and display distinctive bright-blue colouring.
The City of Cape Town said they are aware of the recent sightings of Blue Dragon Sea Slugs and has already conducted a site inspection at Muizenberg Beach this morning.
“Our coastal management officials identified five Blue Dragon Sea Slugs and a significant number of blue bottles. Our teams will continue to monitor the coastline for any changes. The presence of these species is a natural, common phenomenon driven by warmer summer water temperatures and the prevailing south-easterly winds,” said deputy mayor and mayco member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Eddie Andrews,
Authorities stress these marine slugs remain extremely venomous after death, posing serious risk to anyone who touches them.
The Good Hope Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) said it was informed of the Blue Dragon slugs on Muizenberg Beach today.
“However, we do not have the expertise and/or man power to deal with an incident like this. We have reported it to City of Cape Town’s Coastal Management team (whom we have a close relationship with) and they are looking into the matter. Should they need our assistance we will most definitely be there,” said SPCA Inspectorate Supervisor Rudolph Philander.
Naturally occurring marine life events do not fall within the SPCA’s enforcement role, SPCA Communications Manager, Belinda Abraham added.
“We do however urge members of the public not to touch them, as they can deliver a painful sting, even when dead, and to keep children and pets at a safe distance.”
The blue dragons are native to tropical and subtropical oceans, but occasionally wash up on Cape Town’s shores due to strong winds and ocean currents that carry them from their natural habitat.
Painful sting symptoms
Contact with the creatures causes sudden, intense pain, followed by skin inflammation, swelling and raised welts.
Victims may also experience nausea and vomiting.
The slugs derive their potent venom by feeding on Portuguese man-o-war jellyfish.
Emergency treatment protocol
Anyone stung should immediately rinse the affected area with seawater only, never fresh water. Hot-water immersion at around 45°C for 20-90 minutes can help reduce pain.
Medical attention should be sought if symptoms worsen or signs of allergic reaction develop.
Community safety reminder
Beach visitors should admire these creatures from a safe distance and immediately report any sightings to lifeguards or local authorities.
Parents are especially urged to supervise children closely and educate them about the dangers these creatures pose.
People’s Post contacted the City for comment, but they could not respond before the time of publication.
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