Home / Environment / Kent Coastline Sees Mass Starfish Die-Off
Kent Coastline Sees Mass Starfish Die-Off
26 Dec
Summary
- Hundreds of dead starfish washed ashore on Kent beaches.
- The mass stranding occurred on Boxing Day on Margate Main Sands.
- Sea conditions and strong winds are blamed for the event.
On Boxing Day, a startling number of dead starfish were found washed ashore on beaches in Kent, specifically at Margate Main Sands and St Mildred's Bay Westgate. This unusual marine event has drawn attention to the impact of environmental conditions on coastal wildlife.
The Environment Agency has explained that the mass stranding was a direct consequence of unsettled weather patterns experienced on Christmas Eve. A strong wind combined with specific sea conditions is thought to have pulled these creatures from their natural chalk reef environment.
This phenomenon highlights the vulnerability of marine life, such as starfish, mussels, and crabs, to disruptions. Unfavorable weather, including strong onshore winds and spring tides, can easily dislodge them from rocky habitats, leading to them being stranded on beaches.
