- SEA LIFE, Bay of Rays
There are over 500 different species of Rays and Skate in our oceans and rivers
Their closest relative is the Shark; Rays evolved from Sharks around 150 million years ago! Just like Sharks, Rays don’t have a bony skeleton. Instead, their skeleton is made of cartilage (just like our nose and ears!) This makes them lighter so it is easier for Rays to glide through the ocean.
Be enchanted by our assortment of amazing rays! We have a variety of rays swimming around in our Bay of Rays display.
How many species of ray will you spot?
Cownose Rays
These smiley guys get their name from the shape of their nose. Cownose Rays are also known for their long migrations in large schools. They are strong swimmers, able to cover long distances.
Did you know?
Baby Rays
When they are born, baby rays are so small and see-through that their gills and stomach are visible through their skin!
Camouflage
Undulate Rays have beautiful mottled colouring which helps them to hide on the seabed.
Undulate Rays
Only start to breed at about eight years old, making them vulnerable to overfishing before they can reproduce.