A CLOSER LOOK AT OUR COWNOSE RAYS!

10/04/2024

CREATURE FEATURE: Today we are here to share our trio of Cownose Rays. The cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) is a species of Batoidea (Rays) found throughout a large part of the western Atlantic and Caribbean, from New England to southern Brazil. Cownose rays prefer to live in shallower, coastal waters or estuaries. Size, lifespan, and maturity differ between male and female rays. Rays have a distinct shape, and it has two lobes at the front of its head, resembling a cow nose! Cownose rays can live between 16 and 21 years, depending on sex. Rays feed upon organisms with harder shells, such as clams, crustaceans, or mollusks. They are migratory creatures, where they migrate South in the winter and North in the summer. The rays are known to occupy the Chesapeake Bay in the summer months. [x]

Alpha(F), Bravo(M) and Charlie(M) are located in the Open Ocean wing of our Aquarium, where you can stick your hands in the water and have the opportunity to touch these amazing creatures! Each of our rays have unique personalities and are differentiated by color and size. We offer twice daily hand feeding experiences, tickets can be purchased at our Zoo entrance, Aquarium entrance or pre-purchased on our website with our ticket packages. Be sure to stop by and say hello to Alpha, Bravo and Charlie!

- Zookeeper Carly