Whale Burp

WHALE BURP

Have You Ever Seen A “Whale Burp”?

Winter winds and heavy surf can produce “whale burps”. Also known as surf balls, these oval or round bundles of fibrous material periodically show up on coastlines throughout the world.

How are they made?

Lost fishing line and strands of plastic roll around in nearshore waves, collecting seaweed, pine needles, dune grass, small feathers, shell fragments, and other debris, forming tight, bristly balls.

Finding a “whale burp” …

Your best chance of finding a “whale burp” is during stormy weather. Take advantage of the next wild, blustery day by bundling up and taking a garbage bag with you! Even if your quest for a whale burp proves unsuccessful, picking up even a few additional pieces of plastic or trash can help protect marine life. Beach cleanup bags are available in the Seaside Aquarium’s gift shop.