Toxic Hemlock Water Dropwort washed ashore. Watch out for “dead man’s fingers” on Saltram, especially if you have pets.
This also occurred in Cornwall recently. Hemlock Water Dropwort appeared in Newquay. It was at the Gannel Estuary in December 2024.
Hemlock water dropwort is super poisonous. People call it “dead man’s fingers.” You find it near rivers and ditches. Every part of the plant is toxic.
If eaten, it can hurt people, pets, and livestock. You can spot it by its carrot-like leaves. It grows near water and smells bad.
The stem is hollow and the roots white. It is really crucial to avoid it. Hemlock toxins cause muscle paralysis. This leads to breathing problems, then death.
Even a tiny bit can kill humans or animals. Just last week, it washed up in Cornwall. Dogs got sick after beach visits.
Cornwall Council is putting up warning signs. They want dog owners to be careful. Keep dogs on a leash, they advise. Hemlock is common but risky.
The woman in Plymouth kicked the root away. She did not want dogs to eat it. This happened around 5:15 PM on February 9. She saw the root on Saltram beach that day.
Saltram wants dog owners to stay alert. Talk to Saltram’s rangers if you spot it. A ranger said Hemlock is common there.
It supports the local wildlife too. The plant helps stop soil from washing away. They want people to not eat any plants. If unsure, avoid picking them, said a ranger.
They want Saltram to be safe for everyone. Contact a ranger if you have questions. They will always help.