About
The Common Cockle lives on muddy and sandy shores, between the high tide and low tide mark, and is commonly found in estuaries. It is a medium-sized clam-like shell, rounded and domed with radiating ridges. It feeds by filtering plankton and other organic matter from the water. Cockles are predated upon by oystercatchers, the shore crab, shrimps and flatfish.
How to identify
There are various species of cockle which can be hard to tell apart. This is the commonest and the most likely one to be found washed up on the beach. The outer surface of the shell is off-white, yellowish or brown, and the inside is white.
Where to find it
Found all around our coasts.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- November
- December
How can people help
Cockles have been collected as food for hundreds of years, but mechanised methods of collection like dredging, have led to concerns about over-exploitation. In some areas, there are now limits on cockle harvests. The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. This work has recently had a massive boost with the passing of the Marine Bill, promising sustainable development of the UK's marine environment. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.