Stingray Migration Captured On Camera

Though the twice a year migration patterns of the Cownose stingray from Florida to the Yucatan in Mexico and back, is a well-known fact, it has rarely been caught on camera until recently.

Last July, an amateur photographer came across this beautiful phenomenon, whilst on a whale shark expedition and, managed to capture it all on her camera!

Cownose stingrays, one of 42 species of stingrays are also closely related to sharks and skate. Their long pectoral fins divide into two at their dome-shaped head, creating a cow-like resemblance, from which they derive their name. Though their stingers are poisonous, Cownose rays are very shy and do not get aggressive even when they are in large groups.

This species of stingrays travel in huge groups, often in the thousands and have long migration patterns. However, they have never been caught in action prior to this.

Sandra Critelli, the photographer who took these amazing pictures, believes that there were thousands of stingrays all around them. The boat's captain shut off the engine and for 15 minutes they all watched, mesmerized by the golden sheath gliding silently below them, on their way southward to warmer weather.

Sandra says that while snorkeling with the sharks was fun, this was the definitely the highlight of her trip.

Source: DailyMail.co.uk, Monterey Bay Acquarium.org,neaq.org