Shark and skate eggcases

* Egg case identification guide to 3 sharks and 10 skates from around Britain and Ireland
* No special equipment needed
* Guide features straightforward flow chart for speedy egg case identification

Although sharks, skates and rays are common in the seas around these islands, you are unlikely to see them as they live in deep water. But there is another way to find out which species live off your stretch of coast.

Many sharks, skates and rays reproduce by laying eggs. Since the sea is rough, each egg is protected by a tough leathery capsule: the egg case. Once empty, the egg cases (or mermaid’s purses) often wash up on the beach. The egg cases of different species vary. So by looking at the size, shape and features, we can identify which species laid it.

Egg cases are large and robust, so are a great target when beach-combing. Plus unlike going rock-pooling, you don’t have to wait for the lowest tides. Indeed one of the best places to find them is among the strandline. Egg cases wash up on the shore throughout the year. After stormy weather is prime egg case hunting time. There may be hundreds of different egg cases to find.

(OP210)