Velella velella (Point Reyes National Seashore)
Strange jellyfish-like creatures have been washing ashore on several of California’s beaches in recent days. Hundreds have been seen near Point Reyes National Seashore, Huntington Beach, Zuma Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Salt Creek Beach. They look quite a bit like the poisonous Portuguese Man O’War. But, experts say they’re not poisonous and not jellyfish. They’re called Velella Velella, or By-the-Wind Sailors. The species is a cousin of the jellyfish. They’re native to the open ocean, but strong winds bring them to shore in the spring and early summer. Scientists say they’re mostly harmless to people but can cause slight skin irritation.