The Mayor of Guardamar del Segura, José Luis Sáez, confirmed that the swimming ban has been lifted on the town’s eleven kilometres of coastline. This decision comes after the sighting of two Glaucus atlanticus, commonly known as blue dragons, which are venomous marine molluscs. The red flag had been raised as a precautionary measure after the creatures were discovered on the beach of Vivers late Wednesday afternoon.

From early Thursday morning, local authorities deployed a significant operation involving lifeguards, police, and cleaning vessels to inform beachgoers and search for additional specimens. Although the blue dragons may appear harmless at first glance, they can deliver a painful sting that is more intense than that of jellyfish, prompting immediate safety measures.

Sáez highlighted the challenges of locating more blue dragons due to their small size, reaching just over four centimetres long. The situation was closely monitored, and the red flag remained in place as a precaution until it was deemed safe to resume swimming. Notably, this is not the first time blue dragons have been found in the region, with sightings recorded in previous years.

Biologists warn that while the risk from these creatures is low, caution is still advised. The blue dragons are known to feed on jellyfish, accumulating toxins that can cause adverse reactions in humans. Residents are urged to avoid contact with the blue dragons and report any sightings to the lifeguards immediately.