Shark Egg Case Hunting

WHAT IS A SHARK EGG CASE?

While walking along the shore, most people look for shells or sea glass, but another fascinating thing to do is to search along the wrack line (high tide line) amongst the seaweed for shark and skate egg cases.

While some sharks give birth to live young called pups, others lay eggs in protective cases. The egg cases vary in size depending on species. They look dry and leathery when washed up on the shore. Some people call them Mermaid's Purses.

WHY ARE THEY CALLED MERMAID'S PURSES?

The term "Mermaid's Purse" comes from the pouch-like shape of the egg cases. The slit/opening at one side of the egg case also contributes to the legend that Mermaids use these leathery pouches to store precious items.

WHY DO AN EGG CASE HUNT?

Egg case hunting has become popular in other countries in recent years. It is a fun, alternative activity for the young and the young at heart to do during the Easter break.

Egg case hunting is a valued method of citizen science data collection. As scientists are continuously learning more about shark and skate species in Irish waters, they greatly appreciate the citizen science data collected by the public.

Egg case data helps scientists understand more about the location of nursery areas. Knowing where these areas are is key to knowing where sharks and skates live and breed and aids in implementing effective conservation management for these vulnerable creatures.

HOW DO I RECORD MY FINDS?

To upload your data on to the National Biodiversity Data Base you can access a simple form on the Marine Dimensions website or through Purse Search Ireland. You simply fill in the form and upload your photos.

CLEAN COAST'S #2MINUTEBEACHCLEAN EGG CASE HUNT COMBO

This Easter, Clean Coasts are asking all of our volunteers to combine an egg case hunt with a #2MinuteBeachClean or regular clean up. Each empty egg case found is a reminder that just offshore, young sharks and skates are beginning their lives.

So, the next time you're out on the beach, slow down, and scan the seaweed along the shore. You might spot a mermaid's purse — the tiny first home of a shark or skate, some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures.