Spotted Eagle Ray

By Christopher Minster

The spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari) is a large, graceful, beautiful member of the ray family that is common throughout the tropics around the globe. They can reach lengths of up to 2.5 meters (eight feet) across, and counting their long tail, can be found up to 5 meters (16 feet) in length. They can weigh over 230 kilograms (500 pounds). They tend to skim near the bottom of sandy areas, looking for mollusks and crustaceans which make up their diet.

In Galapagos, they are relatively uncommon: you’ll see ten stingrays for every spotted eagle. They are most often seen by snorkelers in deep-water sites, such as Rábida, Devil’s Crown and Turtle Rock. Spotted Eagles are shy, and will generally swim off if approached by snorkelers.