What is a sea wash ball?
Q&A editor Sarah McPherson uncovers the mystery of a common beach find.

This is a common find on the winter strandline, and is a baseball-sized sphere comprising a mass of empty common whelk egg cases.
Advertisement
It's often seen attached to rocks or stones, and colour is significant: if it’s pale yellow, there may still be some eggs inside; if it’s greyish, the young will have left. Many of the hatchlings don’t survive, gobbled up by their stronger siblings.
Advertisement
Main image: Sea wash ball. © Steve Trewhella/Getty
Authors

Sarah McPhersonFeatures editor, BBC Wildlife Magazine
Advertisement
Advertisement

Subscribe to BBC Wildlife Magazine
CHOOSE YOUR BONUS GIFT when you subscribe to BBC Wildlife Magazine today.
Choose from either a Interactive Beehive or, a RSPB Open Nestbox. Plus, save 35% off the subscription price!
SUBSCRIBE TODAY
Advertisement