Beachgoers are being warned after weever fish have been spotted along the Suffolk coast. 

Weever fish, also known as sting fish, have been seen several times over the past few weeks in Southwold. 

Found in shallow waters, usually during warm summer months, the weever fish is classified as an ‘ambush predator’ – spending most of the day buried in the shallows, displaying only its eyes and dorsal spikes.

If stood on by an unsuspecting bather, the weever’s dark tipped spines can inject a painful venom.

Weever fish are some of the only venemous fish found in the UK and while their sting can be painful, they are not dangerous.

Suffolk wildlife trust have described the creatures as upturned, grumpy mouth, with a deep yellowish body tapering down towards the tail.

Their eyes sit on top of the head as the rest of the body is usually buried in the sand.

They have black dorsal fins that contains the venom, along with spines on gill covers.

To avoid being stung people are being urged to wear beach shoes when paddling in sandy waters. 

The only treatment for a weever fish sting is to soak the affected area in hot water, above 40C, breaking down the venom’s protein.

Seek out lifeguard assistance if stung on a beach.