Canary Islands beach closed after sightings of dangerous ‘Blue Dragons’
The Beach Department of Telde Town Council temporarily closed Melenara Beach in Gran Canaria this morning, Friday, after several blue dragons (Glaucus atlanticus), striking but potentially dangerous marine creatures, were spotted near the shoreline.
They announced the temporary bathing ban on social media, raising the red flag along with a white flag bearing the jellyfish symbol as a precautionary measure.
Despite their beautiful, iridescent appearance, blue dragons can deliver a painful sting that may cause severe skin irritation, redness, and even vomiting or intense reactions in sensitive individuals. The creatures feed on Portuguese man o’ war jellyfish, storing their venom in their tissues, which makes them potentially more toxic than their prey.
Beachgoers are urged not to swim, avoid touching or approaching the animals, and follow lifeguard instructions.
After a safety inspection using a jet ski patrol, no further specimens were found, and the green flag was reinstated, reopening the beach later this afternoon. Councillor María Calderín confirmed the closure was strictly preventive and taken “in the interest of public safety.”
Why Blue Dragons Are Dangerous
The blue dragon is a small marine mollusc — typically 2 to 4 centimetres long — that floats upside down on the sea surface. While rare in coastal waters, wind and current patterns can occasionally carry them toward Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches.
Experts advise that in case of contact, the affected area should not be rubbed or rinsed with fresh water. Instead, it should be washed gently with seawater or saline solution, and medical attention sought if symptoms persist.
Other Sightings in the Canary Islands
This is not the first time blue dragons have been spotted in the archipelago. Over the past year, their presence has led to temporary beach closures in several locations, including Famara and La Garita (Lanzarote) and Tasarte (Gran Canaria).
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