How do sand dollars wash up on shore?

Living just below the surface of the sand, Dendraster is protected from ordinary swells and waves. But winter storms churn the sand and wash the hapless sand dollars onto the beach, where they strand and will suffocate unless they can return to safety under water.



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But living sand dollars are covered with tiny gray or purple spines that make the animals look fuzzy, Seaside Aquarium said. Once sand dollars wash ashore, they can survive only a few minutes, according to The Oregonian.

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In most states, taking a living sand dollar from the beach is illegal. However, laws vary about collecting a dead sand dollar. It's best to check for signs at the beach, look at your state laws online or ask a lifeguard or warden working at the beach.

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Sand Dollar Meaning: Have you ever come across a sand dollar when walking along the shore on the beach? It's pretty rare to find one fully intact so when you do, it's a little hidden treasure. Sand dollars are actually burrowing sea urchins.

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