The goose neck barnacle is found on coastlines from southeastern Alaska to Baja California, Mexico, and possibly further south. A similar species, Pollicipes pollicipes, is found on the western shores of Europe and northern Africa.

Where do Percebes grow?

Bewitching Barnacles

Sourcing them is no small task: Percebes grow only in shallow, cold water, in the nooks where ocean waves and rocky breaks meet, meaning divers looking to pluck the sturdy barnacles have to brave surf and jagged shoreline simultaneously.

How much does gooseneck barnacles cost?

Gooseneck barnacles are a very old tradition in Spain, where they are called percebes. Spaniards pay dearly for them at tapas bars where, displayed on lettuce or ice and served with garlicky aioli, they cost about $2 each.