Rock pooling has long been one of Britain’s favourite seaside pastimes – and now it’s becoming a nationwide competition. 

As part of its network of seven new hubs across the country, The Rock Pool Project has launched its first Bioblitz Battle events in Menai Bridge, Anglesey with the next free event taking place on Saturday 13 December.

Thanks to funding from the ScottishPower Foundation, National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Marine Biological Association, these fun challenges will bring communities together on local beaches, encouraging people to discover marine life and record the rarest species they can find.

Each hub will give local people the chance to explore their shores, discover marine life, and contribute to vital citizen science. 

Nathan Jackson, volunteer leader for Wales, said: “There’s something magical about discovering the tiny creatures living in our rock pools – and now we’re inviting the community to turn that wonder into action. These events are a brilliant way to connect with nature, learn something new, and help protect our coastline. I’m thrilled to be leading the Menai Bridge hub and can’t wait to welcome participants to join us on this exciting journey.”

Top 5 Species to Spot at Menai Bridge This Winter

Nathan has hand-picked five of the most rewarding species to look out for during winter rock pooling sessions at Menai Bridge:

1. Common Sea Star (Asterias rubens)
Common under rocks or mussel beds, identified by their orange colouring and pale spines.
Fun fact: They can regenerate whole limbs – even from a remaining central disc!

2. Serrated Wrack (Fucus serratus)
Found mid to low shore, recognisable by their serrated edges and flat fronds.
Fun fact: A single female can release over a million eggs.

3. Violet Sea Slug (Edmundsella pedata)
A tiny but vibrant species found on the underside of submerged rocks. Out of water they shrink into tiny pink blobs, so gently submerge to see their full beauty.
Fun fact: They feed on hydroids and can reuse their stinging cells for defence.

4. Black Squat Lobster (Galathea squamifera)
Common across the British Isles, often peeking out from under stones with their claws visible.
Fun fact: Juveniles can sometimes be bright red.

5. Atlantic Bobtail Squid (Sepiola atlantica)
A charismatic sight, usually found around sandy edges of rock pools. They can bury into sand using their tentacles.
Fun fact: They can change colour and release ink when threatened.

Nathan added:
“I’ve seen all these species at Menai Bridge before – usually fairly regularly. They’re not rare, but you do need to spend time looking in the right places, and finding them really does feel like a reward.”

The Rock Pool Project has already built a strong reputation for combining education, conservation, and fun through its monthly Big Rock Pool Challenge events. 

Participants race against time to identify local marine wildlife and score points for the variety of species they discover and log. Its hands-on approach encourages people to get involved in recording marine wildlife while fostering a deeper connection with the ocean.

Dr Ben Holt, CEO and founder of the Rock Pool Project added: “We’ve been successfully running our hubs in Falmouth and Plymouth for eight years, attracting hundreds of people every month to explore local rock pools and record the species they find. 

“We’re working with our new Hub leader Nathan, to establish their local team in Menai Bridge. If individuals would like to take part in events in this area, just visit our website to find out more.”

Commenting on the national expansion, Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “It’s fantastic to see The Rock Pool Project celebrate the next step in this truly unique initiative with the unveiling of the new hubs. 

“These hubs will bring even more people together on their local beaches, not just to share the joy of discovering marine life and protecting the environment, but to help build lasting connections between communities and their coastlines. That’s exactly why we’re proud to support the project through our Marine Biodiversity Fund, and we’re excited to see the positive impact these new teams will make.”

Stuart McLeod from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re delighted to support The Rock Pool Project as it expands across the UK, inspiring people of all ages to connect with their local coastline and discover the incredible marine life on their doorstep. Thanks to National Lottery players, this project is helping communities play a vital role in protecting our precious natural heritage for future generations.”

For more information visit: https://www.therockpoolproject.co.uk/hubs/menai-bridge