How to spot the Spotted eagle ray when scuba diving

Aetobatus narinari

Found worldwide in tropical and warm temperate waters (Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans). Absent from the Mediterranean. Includes US coast (Carolinas south), Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Brazil, West Africa, Red Sea, Indo-Pacific (South Africa to Hawaii, Japan to Australia), Eastern Pacific (Gulf of California to Peru, Galapagos).

When to spot

Can be seen year-round in many tropical locations. Some areas report seasonal aggregations, like Cozumel, Mexico (winter months, Dec-March considered peak season). Often seen during daytime dives.

Water

Tropical and warm temperate waters.

How to spot

Commonly seen cruising over coral reefs, sandy flats near reefs, and in bays. They often swim near the surface but can be found down to ~60m. Sometimes seen solitary, sometimes in schools. Approach calmly as they can be shy.

Worldwide observation of the Spotted eagle ray

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Data sources

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