Anyone who has spent time along Pensacola Bay with children knows how quickly a simple beach walk can turn into an unexpected discovery. Kids often spot small, round, squishy objects along the shoreline and excitedly rush to show them off. While the playful nicknames adults give these finds may cause laughter, the truth behind them is far more natural and fascinating. What children usually uncover are mudballs—harmless formations created by the bay’s unique environment.
Mudballs are common in calm bayside areas where soft sediment, grassy marshes, and gentle tides meet. Unlike ocean beaches with constant wave action, Pensacola Bay’s quieter waters allow fine mud and clay to settle. Over time, small pieces of this sediment break free due to water movement, weather, or activity near the shore. As these fragments roll back and forth along the bay floor, they slowly become rounded and smooth.
The process is similar to how river stones or sea glass are shaped. Sand and water polish the mud, compacting it into firm, ball-like forms. Their dark green or nearly black color often comes from decaying plant material mixed into the sediment. Though they may look strange, mudballs are typically odorless, soft, and completely natural. If one has a strong smell or feels sticky, it’s best to leave it alone, but most are safe to briefly examine before returning to the shore.
For generations, these curious finds have been part of growing up along the Gulf Coast. Mudballs may not be as famous as shells, but they spark curiosity, invite questions about nature, and often become small, memorable moments from a day at the beach.