A strange discovery at Birubi Beach in Port Stephens, New South Wales, has captivated Australians after a local beachgoer shared it on Facebook.
Covered in Sea Creatures
Susan McCarthy posted images and a video of the mysterious object on Saturday in the group “Port Stephens in Pictures,” sparking curiosity and a bit of unease among users.
The post quickly gathered attention, with some joking they’d have nightmares from the eerie sight, according to Tag24.
McCarthy explained she initially wanted help identifying the unusual object washed ashore. The images and video reveal a large, weathered object, encrusted with barnacles, shellfish, and a variety of other marine life.
In her post, McCarthy described the sight as "beautiful," adding that she would have been terrified if it had floated nearby while she was in the water.
"It was completely covered with all these creatures," she wrote, noting the unusual gathering of small animals on the object.
Unique Biodiversity
Upon closer inspection, McCarthy confirmed the object was a large tree trunk, likely dislodged and carried in by recent high winds and rough seas. Marine life, including barnacles and various shellfish, had firmly latched onto the trunk, turning it into an ecosystem of its own.
Speaking with Yahoo News Australia, McCarthy said she later notified the local National Parks Service when she reported sightings of storm-driven, exhausted seabirds along the beach.
National Parks officials assured her that after recent strong southerly winds and rough seas, such driftwood landings were not uncommon.
Her post prompted others to share photos of similar finds, illustrating how Australia's diverse marine life regularly provides unusual surprises.
As the comments grew, the post showed the region’s unique biodiversity, which often captivates locals and tourists alike.
Photo: Facebook/Screenshot/Susan McCarthy
