Dog that hunts 'sea vomit' wins animal of the year

A black Labrador named Sgiath has been named animal of the year by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) for her groundbreaking work tracking down invasive carpet sea squirts, nicknamed 'sea vomit' ^[1]. The six-year-old dog, from the Scottish Highlands, is believed to be the UK’s first working dog trained to detect this marine pest, which can smother native species and damage coastal economies.

Sgiath works with her owner, marine ecologist Dr Texa Sim, who trained her from a pup as a mountain rescue dog before adapting her skills for marine conservation ^[1]. At low tide, Sgiath uses her powerful sense of smell to locate colonies of the carpet sea squirt, Didemnum vexillum, which can blend in with seaweed and oyster cages. When she finds one, she gives a 'passive indication'—a stillness or freeze stare—rather than barking, to avoid disturbing the site.

The invasive species, thought to have originated in Japan, arrived in southern England and Wales in 2008 and has since spread to multiple UK coastlines ^[1]. It reproduces rapidly in warmer waters, raising concerns over further expansion. Dr Martyn Kurr from Bangor University noted that such biofouling species outcompete native wildlife and clog aquaculture systems, costing millions annually across Europe.

Dr Sim initially doubted whether dogs could detect marine invasions, but Sgiath’s accuracy has exceeded expectations ^[1]. Her ability to 'dive down under the seaweed' with her nose has revolutionised how researchers identify and target these colonies. The dog’s dual training in rescue and conservation reflects years of intensive work from both animal and handler.

Sgiath, who enjoys her dog blanket when off duty, is one of two working labradors owned by Dr Sim; her younger sister Uisage also assists in conservation tasks ^[1]. The IFAW’s 26th annual Animal Action Awards, held on 15 October 2026, celebrated Sgiath’s achievements as a pioneering force in marine protection.

Experts like Dr Kurr believe sniffer dogs could play a vital role in detecting early signs of marine invasions, offering a low-cost, high-impact solution ^[1]. The story was first reported by BBC News.