Scientists from UCC are doing research into Flapper Skate (previously known as Common Skate), a species that is scarce worldwide but found in pockets around the Irish coast. One of those areas is off the Cork coast, and the UCC team are investigating whether this area is a nursery ground for skate. They are asking for anyone who finds a skate egg (mermaids purse) to report it to them. As sea anglers will regularly spend time on beaches, you are well placed to assist the UCC team with their scientific work.
See the communication below from the team:
Hi all. My name is Danielle, and I am a marine biologist at the University College Cork and MaREI Centre.
Please help us find Ireland’s first flapper skate nursery by reporting any flapper eggcase (or ‘mermaid’s purse’) sightings. This Critically Endangered species is found in very few places in the world, one of which is Co. Cork. While we are just looking for flapper skate eggs (all rare skate eggs are bigger than your hand!), all mermaid’s purses can be reported via the Marine Dimensions website!
https://marinedimensions.ie/purse-search-sightings-form/
https://marinedimensions.ie/purse-search-sightings-form/
There are 71 species of shark, skate and ray in Irish waters, many of which lay eggs. You’ve likely stumbled across many different species on the shoreline. Learn more here: https://marinedimensions.ie/purse-search-ireland/
