UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Common whelk

Buccinum undatum

Type

Molluscs, Shells

Description

Very large shell, usually white. Its body is also pale, but flecked with dark colours. Also called “buckie”.

A voracious carnivore that feeds on other molluscs, such as oysters and scallops.

Location

All around the UK, particularly common on northern coasts.

Habitat

Subtidal, Seabed, Strandline