How to Eat Velella Velella

A scene which is normally chaotic is more so on this overcast morning. The flock of sanderlings that race up and down the beach ahead of the waves is much bigger than normal. Their frenzied back-and-forth movements create dizzying flashes of black and gray, making it difficult to focus on an individual bird. Within the hustle and bustle, birds jockey for position and fight over prey while trying not to get run over by other flock members. At the root of this activity is an event that appears far bigger this year than in the recent past.   

The annual stranding of Velella Velella now covers many west coast beaches. The small gelatinous creatures arrive by the thousands depending on the wind and the current and provide a free buffet for shorebirds. A buffet this flock of sanderlings was intent to take advantage of.

Shorebirds may peck at the dried-out invertebrates, but it is the fresh arrivals that interest them most. Experienced birds seem to know that it’s best to remove the gelatinous, yet semi-rigid sail from the rubbery blue flesh. That is not an easy feat, but a vigorous shake can rip the sail from the body.

Unfortunately, that’s not always possible without drawing unwanted attention. Removing the sail increases handling time, which often invites thieves.

To avoid theft, some birds attempt to swallow the entire hydrozoan whole. While that type of quick thinking can thwart a steal attempt, swallowing the sail normally results in regurgitation a short time afterward.

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This sanderling was fortunate not to lose its regurgitated meal and moved to a more secluded part of the beach to dine without disturbance. However, the experience underscores that there is a right and a wrong way to eat Velella Velella…and that thieves can force smart birds to make bad choices.