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Tourist beaches closed thanks to blue dragon sea slug

Guardamar del Segura beach in Alicante was closed due to the presence of the creatures — Guardamar del Segura beach in Alicante was closed due to the presence of the creatures (Getty Images)

Beaches in Guardamar del Segura, Alicante, were temporarily closed to swimmers after two toxic blue dragon sea slugs were discovered.
The creatures, around four centimetres long and bright blue, are known for their painful sting which can cause nausea, pain, and vomiting in humans.
Local authorities prohibited swimming and warned people not to touch the slugs, even with gloves, advising them to report any sightings.
Guardamar del Segura's mayor, José Luis Sáez, confirmed the red flag status on social media, indicating a ban on swimming.
The beaches were later reopened with a yellow flag, allowing swimming, but municipal and emergency services continue to monitor the situation.

Beaches closed in Spanish holiday spot after dangerous and rare sea slug spotted — In full