Wildlife in Stoke Lake: Snakelock Anemones

Stoke Lake is also home to marine wildlife, including snakelock anemones. These are common coastal anemones found around the UK and are usually seen attached to rocks, seaweed, seagrass or other fixed surfaces. They have long flowing tentacles and are part of the wider group of animals that includes sea anemones, corals and jellyfish.

Snakelock anemones are not toxic in the same way people may think of poisonous plants or dangerous animals. They are not aggressive, they do not chase or attack people, and they are a normal part of the marine environment. However, their tentacles contain tiny stinging cells, which they use to catch small prey.

For most people, accidental contact may cause local irritation, redness, itching or a stinging sensation. Reactions can vary depending on the person, the amount of contact and skin sensitivity. Children, people with sensitive skin, and anyone with allergies may react more strongly.

What to do if you are stung

If someone is stung by a snakelocks anemone or another sea creature, the NHS advises rinsing the affected area with seawater, not fresh water.

Any visible tentacles or stinging material should be removed carefully with tweezers, not bare fingers.

The area can then be soaked in warm water, as warm as can be comfortably tolerated, and pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used if needed. (nhs.uk⁠)

Do not rub the area, do not rinse with fresh water, and do not apply urine, alcohol or other home remedies.

These can make symptoms worse or trigger more stinging cells.

Medical advice should be sought if symptoms are severe, pain does not settle, swelling spreads, the sting affects the face or eyes, or the person feels unwell.

Call 999 or seek urgent medical help if there is difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe swelling, dizziness, collapse, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

The presence of snakelocks anemones should not be seen as a sign of pollution. They are living marine creatures and form part of the lake’s natural ecology. The sensible approach is simple: enjoy seeing them, but do not touch or disturb them.