Rays – Majestic Gliders of the Deep
The magical waters of Plett are home to a diverse array of marine life, including the awe-inspiring Bull Rays and Short-Tail Stingrays. These graceful creatures, though rarely encountered in large numbers, offer unforgettable sightings for divers and ocean enthusiasts alike.
BULL RAYS
Bull Rays are part of the eagle ray family and can occasionally be spotted along the country’s coastline, from the temperate waters of Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route to the warmer currents of the east coast. Though not as commonly encountered as other ray species, Bull Rays are a remarkable sight for divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts. We came across this groups when diving at Robberg Nature Reserve, offering an unforgettable experience for divers exploring its waters.
Bull Rays are easily recognisable by their diamond-shaped bodies, broad wing-like fins, and blunt snouts. They are powerful swimmers, using their large pectoral fins to glide effortlessly through the water. We have been lucky enough to encounter them on dives in Plettenberg Bay as the sandy shallow areas provide ideal feeding grounds. These rays are bottom-feeders, using their specialised mouths and strong, flattened teeth to crush crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish buried in the sand.
Short-tail Stingray
Short-tail Stingray resting on the ocean floor in Plettenberg Bay
We commonly encounter Short-Tail Stingrays at the various house reefs close to the dive centre. These bottom-dwellers rely on camouflage and venomous spines for defence while gliding over the ocean floor in search of mollusks, crustaceans, worms, and small fish. Using electroreceptors and keen senses of smell and touch, they skilfully locate prey. Though often inquisitive rather than aggressive, respectful divers may experience incredible encounters with these majestic rays.
