Common Whelk (Edible Whelk)
Buccinum undatum
Common Whelks are larger than dog whelks and are often collected for food in traditional seafood dishes. They prefer softer sediments where they hunt worms and small invertebrates. Around Lihou, juveniles may sometimes be found in lower shore pools, while adults mostly remain in deeper waters, occasionally washing ashore after storms.
- Habitat: Mostly sub-tidal sandy or muddy areas, can sometimes be found in deeper rockpools.
- When to See: Year-round
- Length: Up to ~10 cm