Dog that hunts invasive 'sea vomit' honoured as animal of the year

A Scottish black Labrador named Sgiath has been named the animal of the year by a charity for her work in hunting down an invasive marine creature called carpet sea squirt. The carpet sea squirt, also known as sea vomit, poses a significant threat to coastal wildlife and economies. Sgiath, a six-year-old labrador, has found hundreds of colonies of the sea squirt, which, if left uncontrolled, can smother and kill native species.

Sgiath is believed to be the UK's first sea squirt-hunting dog. Dr. Texa Sim, who owns Sgiath, first trained her as a mountain rescue dog and later adapted her skills for marine conservation work. Sgiath is incredibly intelligent and has a strong bond with her owner. She is trained to recognize the scent of the carpet sea squirt and can pinpoint its location underwater.

Marine experts estimate that the carpet sea squirt, formally named Didemnum vexillum, originated in Japan and arrived on the shores of the UK in 2008. It has since spread to several seaside locations across the country and can appear in various colors, from orange to cream. The carpet sea squirt reproduces rapidly during the warmer summer months and can cause significant damage to aquaculture pens, marine infrastructure, and boat propellers, costing millions of pounds to control and clean up annually.

Dr. Martyn Kurr, a marine biologist from Bangor University, highlighted the importance of Sgiath's work in detecting and controlling the spread of the invasive species. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is awarding Sgiath the animal of the year at its 26th annual animal Action Awards ceremony on October 15th.