It′s a bird, it′s a plane — it′s a flying devil ray! These rays are known for their acrobatic acts — jumping or breaching well above the water′s surface while migrating.
Spinetail giant devil rays typically have a disc width of 1.8 to 2.8 meters (6 to 9 feet), with some individuals reaching up to 3.5 meters (around 11.5 feet) across. But even their size is dwarfed compared to the oceanic manta ray, which can have a wingspan over double that size! They′re easily identified by a thick black, crescent-shaped band that stretches from eye to eye across the top of the head. Their backs are slate blue with lighter gray accents around the head band and fin edges, and their undersides are bright white. While their exact lifespan is unknown, they are believed to live at least 15 years.
Spinetail devil rays are the only known species of mobulid ray with a tail spine, though this spine is often removed by fishers. They are usually seen swimming in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. Like other devil rays, they use their cephalic fins — curled structures on either side of the mouth that resemble horns — to help funnel food while swimming. Their diet includes plankton, small fish, and tiny crustaceans.