Jellyfish advice after sightings in Gosport

Moon jellyfish have been spotted

Author: Jo RawlingsPublished 24th May 2023

There's been an increase in jellyfish sightings around Gosport.

The council has confirmed moon jellyfish have been spotted in Cockle Pond and the boating lake in Walpole Park.

We're told their sting isn't strong enough to penetrate skin but people should be cautious.

A Gosport Borough Council spokesperson said: "These areas of water are classified as saline lagoons, which are rare habitats.

"The jellyfish now being seen are moon jellyfish (scientific name Aurelia aurita) which are common and are generally seen in harbours and estuaries. They live in brackish water with a low salt content.

"Their sting is not strong enough to penetrate human skin, but it's important to be cautious, as people's sensitivity can vary and some individuals could have some irritation."

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.