Large number of European flying squids washing up on Dutch beaches
A remarkably large number of European flying squid have washed ashore on Dutch beaches in February and March. Stichting Anemoon has received around 20 reports so far, making 2026 already a record year, the foundation told RTL Nieuws.
Before 2005, there were hardly any reports about these squids on Dutch beaches. Between 2006 and 2025, reports “gradually increased” with finds reported almost every year. But this year already takes the crown. “A record number of reports, more than 20 already,” the foundation said.
In recent weeks, people have reported on the website waarneming.nl finding European flying squids on beaches in The Hague, Ameland, Schiermonnikoog, Ter Heijde, Bergen aan Zee, and several other places.
This species of squid can grow up to 120 centimeters long and typically lives in deep open water near the United Kingdom and further north. “In the warmer months, they avoid our North Sea and can be found in the Mediterranean Sea. They actively hunt fish and small squid, but they also eat crustaceans. These are cracked open with a sturdy beak located inside the mouth.”
The reason why these squids are suddenly appearing in the Netherlands more and more is likely due to climate change and the warming of the sea water. Stichting Anemoon has noted an increasing pattern of species not native to Dutch waters occurring more frequently.
