Peter Hobby had been conducting a bird survey at the Hurst Spit for the British Trust for Ornithology when he saw hundreds of the curious creatures washed up just past the waterline.
At first, he had no clue as to what they could be, though he later consulted a colleague who was also on the beach, Martin Cooper, who informed him they were known as By-the-Wind Sailors.
He said: “I have been here many times before, but never seen these creatures; there were hundreds, if not thousands of them, along the strand line.
“They are just an incredible little creature.
“Most beautiful up close.
“They are not poisonous, but people are advised not to touch them.
“I am just investigating all about them as I’m not sure what animal family they are linked to.”
Hundreds of ‘unusual sea creatures’ wash up in Hampshire (Image: Peter Hobby)
By-the-wind Sailors, also known as velella velella, are blown through the sea thanks to small, rigid ”sails’ on their body.
Mass strandings have previously been reported at Boscombe beach, in Hayle, Cornwall, and on the west coast of Ireland.
Hundreds of ‘unusual sea creatures’ wash up in Hampshire (Image: Peter Hobby)
The sea creatures are not poisonous but can cause a mild sting that irritates the skin.
Members of the public are advised not to touch them, and not to touch their face, mouth or eyes after making physical contact.