I'm off to El Cotillo next month and intend to use the lagoons to swim and sunbath.
When swimming or wading through the water at the lagoons should I be aware of sea urchins in the sand, if so what would be the best foot ware to use?
Would appreciate any advise or experiences any members have had.
Never seen any in the lagoons, we have been going there for 20plus yrs
Sea urchins are usually deeper than the waters in the lagoons.
They will penetrate all but the toughest foot-ware.
If caught lemon juice is recommended.
There are alot of sea urchins further out in the lagoons , they would only be stood on at the lowest of tides and only if you swum out to get to them . They are very visible so not going to catch you out .
And very tasty if you can find them. Use a tough glove or cloth to hold it. Cut round the middle with scissors. Scoop out and eat the orange roe parts.
There are weever fish that burrow into the sand just about anywhere including in shallow water. They aren't that plentiful so don't get hung up about them, but their sting is clearly very painful (as shown by my son's reaction when a kid). The treatment is normally easily available - apply heat. Not normally a problem on a hot sandy beach, with black pebbles soaking up even more of the sun's heat.
Apart from that, the rocks here are volcanic and some are extremely sharp. I've seen nasty injuries inflicted by them. Yet another reason for wearing the "jellies" that are available absolutely everywhere here for a few pence.
Quote from: SheilaW on May 23, 2014, 11:57:08 AM
Apart from that, the rocks here are volcanic and some are extremely sharp. I've seen nasty injuries inflicted by them.
I agree Sheila! A few years ago I didn't lift my foot up high enough to miss a sharp volcanic piece of rock and it severed a large piece of skin off the bottom of my foot.
A good lump of flesh hanging there, and boy was it sore and it stung for days.
I make sure I go with sandels on now hen I head off for my walks ::)
I agree with others, the only danger in the lagoons is bumping or being knocked against the volcanic rock
Quote from: hairybiker on May 23, 2014, 10:17:22 AM
And very tasty if you can find them. Use a tough glove or cloth to hold it. Cut round the middle with scissors. Scoop out and eat the orange roe parts.
Nice recipe here if you can find a dozen or so ;D
http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/sea_urchin_bruschetta_98128 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/sea_urchin_bruschetta_98128)
Just like to thank eneryone for posting their replies.
I have been stung by a weaver fish on Lowerstoft beach and it was painful (I can sympathise with your sons pain SheilaW)
Thanks KWC for making me aware of the sharp volcanic rocks.
I'm now have no reservation about using the lagoons now, thank you all ;)