Cownose Ray

Cownose rays are benthic feeders that primarily eat hard-shell organisms like clams, oysters, and other mollusks. They use their powerful dental plates to crush the shells of their prey, which they often locate by flapping their wings to clear away sand.

These rays undertake massive seasonal migrations along the eastern coast of North America, moving from Florida up to the Chesapeake Bay in the warmer months. They are known to travel in massive schools consisting of thousands of individuals.

Yes, cownose rays possess a venomous spine located near the base of their tails, which they use for self-defense against predators like sharks. While the sting is rarely life-threatening to humans, it is quite painful and can occur if a swimmer accidentally steps on one.

They are native to the western Atlantic Ocean, but their populations have surged in certain areas like the Chesapeake Bay due to the decline of large sharks. This population boom has led to heavy predation on local oyster and scallop beds, causing concern among local fishers.