The Fylde Coast Marine Life Project.
Ever wondered what the shells and seaweed you see on the beach are?
This site will show you some of the more than 100 species (not including the birds) we've encountered, it will let you tell us about the things that you have found, and tell you a bit more about the biology of one of Britain's most visited coastlines. What to look out for this month:- The sea mouse. This is the biggest hairy worm we've ever seen! Its a native to the Irish sea and most people outside of our area have never seen one. Its big , its hairy but its ours! This one was caught just under the glitterball in Blackpool by Dave McGrath. Blue prawns and brown shrimp There are literally millions of shrimp and prawns in the waters of the Irish sea. See if you can catch them and tell them apart (The clue is in the names!) Cuttlefish bones and Cuttlefish eggs Cuttlefish have laid their eggs (these look like a bunch of grapes see below right) and come to the end of their lives. This beautiful internal shell (below left) is all that's left of such a gorgeous smart creature.
Guides Forms Beaches
Recording
Great news-The marine and coastal access act has been passed. Now the battle begins to protect the fabulous wildlife of the Fylde sea. Erosion We are keeping an eye on erosion at Cleveleys beach. 1m of sand depth had been lost by mid may 2009, more has been lost since this photo. Where has the strandline gone? The strandline on our beaches is vital. It forms the first dunes which protect our homes from the rising sea level, it supports many beasties and plants and it is our window into what is out in our ocean. Unfortunately some councils scrape this away . This stops our coastal defences from forming, kills a very special habitat and prevents us from collecting evidence about what our marine wildlife is. Shame especially since the aim is only to clear away litter.
What have you found? What animals and plants have you spotted already on the Fylde coast? Try the beginners 10 to see what you already know
Tell us about it Use the enquiry page Or download a recording form and send it back to us Photos would be great to! Download our species guide /report to help with the species identification
