Spotted Eagle Rays

Spotted eagle rays, also known as bonnet rays, are a magnificent diamond-shaped species that can be found among coral reefs and shallow tropical waters all over the planet. In Costa Rica, these fish are easily identified by the perfectly spaced white dots over deep blue or black dorsal bodies. Markings can vary, and in different parts of the world the dots are often replaced by white rings. Other prominent features include smooth white underbellies, beak-like heads and respiratory spiracles – orifices that pump water over the gills – on both sides of the skull. Their wings can span almost 10 feet, and the heaviest ray on record weighed in at a whopping 507 pounds. Their cartilaginous bodies can measure 8.2 feet in length, and their whip-like tails add an additional 8.3 feet – for a maximum total of 16.4 feet. Exact lifespan is unknown, but is estimated to be about 20 years.

Last updated: Nov 1, 2023