Creatures to look out for in Dorset

However, species other than the human race will also be going outside, so we have complied a list of five species you can look out for.

1. Jellyfish

Numerous species of jellyfish can be spotted in Dorset, with the majority seen inshore during the spring and summer.

The sea creatures thrive in warmer waters created by sunny days.

In 2014, hundreds of barrel jellyfish - which have a very mild sting despite their size - were spotted along the Dorset coast.

Barrel jellyfish by Denise Nicholson

During 2015, barrel jellyfish were spotted at Alum Chine, Baiter, Branksome Chine, Highcliffe and by Bournemouth Pier.

Common jellyfish which can be spotted around Dorset include: moon jellyfish, by-the-wind sailor, Portuguese man of war, stalked jellyfish, comb jelly, barrel jellyfish, lions mane jellyfish, blue jellyfish, mauve stinger and compass jellyfish.

The Dorset Wildlife Trust encourages people to report their jellyfish sightings to them by tweeting a photo to @DWTMarine accompanied by #dorsetjellyfish.

You can also email kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

2. The Adder

This snake, which prefers heathland, woodland, and moorland habitats, is the UK's only venomous snake, but its poison is generally of little danger to humans.

However, an adder bite can be very painful and cause a nasty inflammation, and is dangerous to the very young, ill or old.

If bitten, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Picture by Danny Green

The greyish snake can be identified by its dark and very distinct zig-zag pattern down its back, and red eye.

Sunny spots are popular with resting or weary adders.

3. Blandford Fly

The Blandford fly is a species of bloodsucking black fly found across Europe from Turkey to Scandinavia.

Blandford Fly

The name originates from Blandford Forum where there was a major outbreak in the 1960s and 1970s.

This insect may only be a tenth of an inch long, but it can pack a painful bite.

Humans make a good meal for the fly which usually stays low to the ground, so ankles and legs are the places most likely to be bitten.

The bite causes red, itchy swelling and sometimes painful blisters.

Some patients report swelling in the armpits and groin, and it can also cause joint pain and a fever.

4. Short-snouted seahorse

Short snouted seahorses are found in shallow waters, often in estuaries or associated with seagrass meadows.

Short-snouted seahorse by Paul Naylor

These seahorses, which are commonly found along the south coast of England, vary from light brown to mottled purple.

Unlike other seahorses, the short snouted seahorse does not have a mane and is, understandably, easily recognisable due to its short snout.

5. Weever fish

There have been many warnings of the venomous fish returning to our shores this summer.

Weever fish lurk below the surface of sand

Weever fish, attracted by the hot weather, bury themselves in the sand and their sting can be excruciatingly painful if trodden on.

Both species have venomous spines on their backs to protect themselves from predators, but the lesser weever is found in shallow water so is the one most likely to be encountered by beach-goers.

Encountering the painful sting of a weever can be avoided by wearing shoes or by shuffling your feet in the sand as you move.