California’s northern beaches are undergoing an unusual natural phenomenon this spring, transforming typical sandy shores into striking, jellylike blue landscapes. The cause? Millions of sea creatures known as Velella velella, or “by-the-wind sailors,” have been washing ashore in unprecedented numbers, creating a visual spectacle from Tomales Bay down to Monterey.
These creatures, resembling electric-blue carpets, are not your typical beach find. They are mainly pelagic, spending their lives far from the coast in the open sea. However, certain conditions, particularly in the spring, seem to push them towards the West Coast.
This isn’t the first time the by-the-wind sailors have made an appearance; they were notably present in large numbers in Southern California last April and during the warmer El Niño years from 2014 to 2016.
But what exactly are these by-the-wind sailors? Contrary to their singular, blob-like appearance, Velella velella are colonies composed of numerous small organisms, known as polyps, united to form a single entity. These colonies can grow up to 3 inches long and possess a distinctive feature: a translucent, triangular sail that aids in their navigation across the ocean’s surface.
They rely on the winds to move, but unfavorable wind directions can lead them astray, causing mass strandings on beaches. While they capture plankton using their stingers, it’s worth noting that they pose no sting threat to humans, although handling them might irritate the skin.
The phenomenon has been so pronounced that areas like Point Reyes National Seashore and Muir Beach have experienced mass die-offs, leaving behind what can only be described as crunchy, translucent debris, much to the curiosity and sometimes dismay of beachgoers.
These occurrences have spurred a myriad of questions from locals and visitors alike, pondering if these creatures could serve any culinary or decorative purpose. The answer to these queries leans towards the negative: these sea drifters are not suitable for consumption, decoration, or as quirky aquatic pets.
Despite their unfortunate end on the beaches, the arrival of the Velella velella provides a unique natural spectacle and an educational opportunity. Their presence highlights the intricate balance of marine life and the impact of seasonal and environmental changes on oceanic species.
For those visiting the affected shores, it’s an opportunity to witness a rare marine event, albeit with a touch of respect and caution due to the delicate nature of these creatures and their ecosystem.
This springtime event invites both awe and reflection on the interconnectedness of wind, water, and wildlife. As these blue voyagers blanket California’s northern coasts, they serve as a vivid reminder of the ocean’s vast, unseen populations and the mysteries they hold.
While the sight is undeniably captivating, it also underscores the importance of understanding and preserving our marine environments, as they continue to reveal their secrets through such unusual and striking occurrences.