Ferrol beaches see high numbers of sea scorpion stings

Lifeguards in Ferrol are reporting a high frequency of stings caused by sea scorpions (escarapotes) on local beaches. Rocío Freire, the beach lifeguarding coordinator for Ferrol, estimates that between 370 and 380 incidents have been recorded this summer, averaging approximately 20 per day.

These fish remain buried under the sand and do not actively attack, but stings occur when swimmers step on them, particularly when the tide is low. A sting is typically identified by a small puncture mark that turns black around the site.

Additionally, a group of Portuguese man o' war (carabelas portuguesas) was spotted at A Frouxeira beach in Valdoviño, prompting increased surveillance by rescue services.