Thousands wash ashore at Eden

Sea hares, a type of sea slug, began washing up at Aslings Beach in Eden a week ago in their thousands, triggering warnings to beach visitors.

They arrived with an algal bloom

Macquarie University marine biologist Culum Brown said the sea hares' arrival was no coincidence. They graze on algae, and some algae contain toxins the slugs maintain as predator defence.

“They graze on algae. The danger here is that some of the algae they eat contain various toxins which the slug can maintain and use as a predator defence.”

Serious risk to dogs

Sea hares feeding on the algae can pose a serious risk to dogs if they lick, mouth or ingest them. Pet owners visiting the beach are advised to keep a distance.

Tides and cleanup reduce numbers

High tides dispersed many sea hares back into the water, and the Bega Valley Shire Council organised local contractors to remove them. Some still remain in patches along the shore.

Dog owners urged to stay vigilant

Bega Valley Shire Council sustainability manager Derek Van Bracht said the volume of sea hares has reduced, but a visible algal bloom remains offshore. Dog owners are advised to stay vigilant.

“Council crews removed thousands of sea hares from Aslings Beach last week. The volume of sea hares on the beach has since reduced, however a visible algal bloom remains offshore. So dog owners are advised to stay vigilant when walking their pets in the area.”