A guide to what you’ll find while rockpooling in Devon
It would be a crying shame to pass up the opportunity, while being so close to the seaside and the magnificent array of wildlife and sea creatures, not to go rockpooling. If you’re staying in north Devon beach accommodation and you’re looking for an activity that will not only educate but entertain the family on your visit then rockpooling is what you need. Enjoy uncovering a whole new domain of creatures along the beautiful shoreline as you investigate the fascinating marine life that inhabits north Devon’s abundance of rock pools. Here are the major 6 most sought-after creatures to be on the lookout for while you’re on your rockpooling adventure: Velvet Swimming Crab –With its distinctive bright red eyes, bright blue banding on its legs and covered in dark hairs, this sideways walking wonder is quite a moody ol’ thing and can pack a mean punch with its strong pincers so stay on their good side and be nice. Common Prawn – this little guy is so transparent that you can see all their internal organs as they scurry around the water in the rockpool displaying their trademark walk. Tompot Blenny – the Tompot Blenny displays distinctive red eyes and red tentacles that protrude from its head like a hat on a catwalk- you will know when you have spotted this one! Pipefish – as we’re sure you can tell from their name, the Pipefish’s defining features are that it is long and thin. Just like with seahorses, the male pipefish carries their young in his brooding pouch. Snake-locks Anemone – simply beautiful in its appearance with bright green with purple tips, this mesmerising creature has a sting in its tail; its tentacles are used to stun passing fish. You’ll be fine though, just enjoy its beauty with your eyes to be safe. Remember.... It’s essential that you always replace any stones if you move them as they are the homes for many of these species. You should never prod or remove the animals either. Additionally you should make sure you check the tides before you set off- you don’t want to get caught out by the incoming tide.
