- Wildlife
- Urchins and starfish
- Edible Sea-urchin
Polly Whyte - earthinfocus
About
Also known as the 'Common Sea-urchin', the Edible Sea-urchin is large and round with short, strong spines. It lives amongst seaweed and rocks, where it grazes on algae and small shellfish.
How to identify
The largest British sea-urchin. Usually brick-orange in colour, with white bumps which the orange spines are attached to.
Where to find it
Found on rocky shores, particularly around the north and west of the UK.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- Novermber
- December
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Numbers of Common Sea-urchins have been depleted by overexploitation for commercial use. The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. This work has recently had a massive boost with the passing of the Marine Bill, promising sustainable development of the UK's marine environment. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.