Dog walkers have been warned after an alien-looking toxic sea creature that can harm pets washed up on a beach.
The Mediterranean sea hare, which resembles a Doctor Who monster, is very rarely found in the UK.
Experts say the species is usually only seen in the warmer Mediterranean region and east Atlantic.
Warmer waters and recent storms likely brought it to Britain.
The brown, slug-like animals release poisons through their skin and can be dangerous if ingested by dogs.
The discovery was made by five-year-old Charley Taviner.
He was rockpooling at a Marine Biological Association event at Mount Batten Beach, Plymouth, Devon, as reported by Need To Know.
Charley’s dad, Chris Taviner, said: “For what I initially thought was seaweed, this has taken a surprising turn.
“If it wasn’t for my son Charley chasing after a large crab, we wouldn’t have found it.”
Loretta Kwok, of the MBA, added: “The joy of discovering something rare can spark a lasting sense of wonder and a stronger passion for caring for our marine environment.
“By bringing people together to gather scientific data and contribute to ongoing research and monitoring, we’re deepening understanding of these ecosystems while empowering communities to play an active role in their protection.
“It’s still too early to draw conclusions from this single discovery, but one thing is certain – that our local rock pools and coastal habitats are incredibly diverse.”
The aplysia depilans, a type of mollusc, can grow to up to 40cm long, weigh up to 380g and is significantly larger than the more common Spotted seahare.
The species swims by flapping two large wings of tissue called parapodia, which make it surprisingly agile.
The MBA advised dog owners to take their pet to a vet if they are in contact with a sea hare.
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