
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