A nearly 5-foot-wide Lion’s Mane jellyfish washed up at Willard Beach recently, prompting warnings from South Portland officials. Though breathtaking in size, these jellies aren’t just scenic—they can deliver powerful stings. As officials stress: observation is fine, but contact is not safe.

Meet the Lion’s Mane on Willard Beach: Ocean’s Largest Jelly

The Lion’s Mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata) is one of the world’s largest gelatinous creatures. Typically found in colder waters from the Arctic to the North Atlantic and Pacific, they’re increasingly common along New England coasts.
While some giants measure up to 7 feet across and have 100-foot tentacles, those spotted near Maine usually have 1–2 foot bells, with tentacles extending up to 30 feet. But even these modest versions pack a sting strong enough to ruin a beach day.

Why They Sting and What Makes Them Tough

Lion’s Manes use nematocysts in their tentacles to paralyze sea life—but human encounters activate those same stingers. Contact can trigger intense burning, redness, welts, and in rare severe cases—nausea, breathing difficulties, or allergic reactions.
Although fatalities are almost unheard of, children and sensitive individuals can experience serious pain—so the tagline remains: don’t touch .

First Aid: Cool, But Not Cool with Fresh Water

Proper response matters. Experts agree:

1. Rinse with seawater, not freshwater, to avoid triggering more venom
2. Remove tentacles carefully using tweezers, gloves, credit card edge, or vinegar-dipped cloth
3. Hot water immersion (~45°C/113°F) for up to 40 minutes relieves pain and breaks down venom
4. Pain relief & antihistamines—ibuprofen, calamine, or hydrocortisone cream help symptoms after initial care

Don’t use freshwater, ice, or urine—they worsen the sting.

Protecting Kids and Beachgoers

Parents and guardians should:

• Teach reef rules: No touching jellies—dead or alive—as tentacles remain venomous even when beached
• Use protective clothing, such as rash guards or wetsuits, especially on jelly-prone beaches
• Carry vinegar in beach kits: a simple and effective first-aid tool
• Stay alert to flags and signs: lifeguards and park officials can warn of jelly sightings

What Beaches and Officials Can Do

To protect public health, local authorities can:

• Erect warning signs and spread urgent bulletins when large Lion’s Manes appear
• Provide training for lifeguards on jellyfish first aid and emergency response
• Offer vinegar stations on piers and walkways — easy to install and invaluable in emergencies
• Encourage citizen science: report sightings to research groups, like Bigelow Lab, to monitor increasing jelly numbers

Why This Matters

Lion’s Mane sightings are rising—warmer ocean currents may be expanding their range . Large specimens pose public health risks, especially for unsupervised children.
Preparing with education, signage, and first aid can turn a potential hospital visit into a safe sunset walk.

Final Take

That massive Lion’s Mane washed ashore reminds us nature’s grandeur—and its hazards. With simple precautions—respect, vinegar, heat, and awareness—we can safely share our beaches. No one wants a childhood memory marred by a sting. Watch, wonder, and walk away—but never touch.

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