Rays

The Ocellated Eagle ray can be found worldwide in mostly tropical but occasionally subtropical waters. Eagle rays flap their fins as they manoeuvre across the ocean, and appear to ‘fly’ across the water, thus their name. Other ray species, such as smooth stingrays, move their whole bodies in a wave motion. The Ocellated Eagle ray can grow up to up to 3.5 metres wide. They are easily recognised by the distinct white spots on the top side of the body.

IUCN Red List Conservation status: Vulnerable

The Smooth Stingray also known as the short-tail stingray, is our largest species of ray here at SEA LIFE Sydney and in the whole of Australia! These rays can get up to 4.3 m in length, with their discs at around 2 m in width and weigh up to 350 kg. You can find our adorable smooth ray, Big Mouth, in our shark valley zone. 

IUCN Red List Conservation status: Least concern 

The Eastern Fiddler Ray is also known by the nickname "Banjo Ray" or "Banjo Shark" due to its distinctive body shape. They are easily identified by the unique, triangular pattern of lighter bands on their backs, located just behind the eyes, and are commonly found in the shallow sandy bays and rocky reefs off the New South Wales coast. They are bottom feeders, using their snouts to hunt for crabs, shellfish, and worms in the sand. 

IUCN Red List Conservation status: Least Concern