Swimmers and walkers have been warned to be extra careful along Donegal’s beaches after a number of attacks by weever fish.
In recent days the tiny fish, which hide in the sand, have attacked beachgoers in a number of locations including Portsalon and Rossnowlagh.
The venomous fish can leave a nasty sting when stepped on and can only be really avoided by not entering the water.
The fish prefer to rest slightly below the surface where the water is warm and shallow.
Stings from the 15cm long fish can be very painful, and lead to swelling and reddening of the foot.
The resulting pain from the fish’s sting is quite severe as its spines embed into people’s feet as they discharge their poison.
In severe cases, stings have been known to trigger heart attacks or cause a severe allergic reaction.
However, mostly the stings will ease up after an hour or so.
The best treatment is to bath the sting in very hot water.
Water Safety Ireland have said that anybody who thinks they have been stung by the 15 cm creatures should immediately contact a lifeguard on duty if there is one nearby.