The spring season brings blue dragons, also known as blue sea slugs or blue glaucus atlanticus, to beaches in areas like Texas as southeast winds blow them ashore.
Blue dragons are small colorful saltwater slugs that feed on toxic jellyfish and store their stinging cells, which they can release to defend themselves even after dying.
Contact with blue dragons can cause a very painful sting that lasts up to 3 hours, with possible side effects like vomiting. Their sting is reported to be 3-5 times stronger than a Portuguese man o’ war.
While their range is expanding, experts say sightings may be increasing simply due to more awareness and documentation of the blue dragons.
Beachgoers, especially parents and children, are warned not to touch blue dragons and instead admire them from a safe distance. Vinegar or warm water can help relieve stings.
Researchers aim to educate the public on safely enjoying nature without disturbing or putting themselves at risk from these unique yet venomous sea creatures that wash ashore each spring season.
Source: nbcnews
