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5 Varieties of Stingrays Found in Florida

5 Varieties of Stingrays Found in Florida

Written by Scuba.com
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Updated on July 26, 2023
Yellow stingray

Florida is home a wide variety of beautiful of sea creatures, one of which is the stingray. These interesting animals are related to sharks, but you don’t necessarily need to run in panic at the sight of one. The stingray is a relatively docile creature, attacking only as a last resort if it feels threatened, which further emphasizes the need to give them — and all marine creatures — adequate space to move and check you out. If humans just respect stingrays’ space, everyone can safely enjoy the natural beauty of all stingray varieties in Florida.

Stingray varieties found in Florida range from small and spotted to large and dark with an assortment of other types in between. By knowing a few of the most common Atlantic stingray species, a person can ensure that the beaches of Florida are safe for both the humans visiting the sea and the stingrays that live in the ocean. Here are just five stingray varieties commonly found in Florida waters.

5 Stingrays Found in Florida

Atlantic Stingray

Atlantic stingray
Atlantic stingray. Image via Shutterstock

The Atlantic stingray grows to be about two feet in diameter. This brownish stingray has a very round appearance with its disc being more circular than ovular. The Atlantic stingray has an unusually long tail and can be found the shallow waters of the Atlantic coastline.

Bluntnose Stingray

Bluntnose stingray
Bluntnose stingray. Image via Shutterstock

This moderately sized stingray was named for its short, broad snout, from where it gets the name “bluntnose.” The average bluntnose stingray is two and a half feet wide with a brown topside and a white underside. These stingrays also have well-developed fin folds on both the dorsal and ventral sides. Most of the time, bluntnose stingrays are found on grass and mud flats, but they have also been known to inhabit coastal waters.

Roughtail Stingray

Roughtail stingray
Roughtail stingray. Image via Shutterstock

The roughtail stingray is much more aggressive-looking than its relatives due to the rows of thorns on its tail. The roughtail has a longer, more angular nose than other stingray varieties. Roughtails usually prefer muddy, shallow waters, although they have been known to venture out to depths of six hundred feet or more.

Southern Stingray

Southern stingray
Southern stingray. Image via Shutterstock

This dark-colored stingray is one of the most angular species with pointed corners on each wing and an angular snout. The southern stingray is very large, often reaching a wingspan of four or five feet.

Yellow Stingray

Yellow stingray
Yellow stingray. Image via Shutterstock

True to its name, this stingray is yellowish in color and sometimes has dark spots. Yellow stingrays are usually less than two feet in diameter and prefer shallow coastal waters. For this reason, many of the stingrays found near Florida’s beaches are yellow stingrays.

Where to See Stingrays in Florida

Florida is a haven for nature enthusiasts and marine lovers alike, offering abundant opportunities to encounter majestic marine creatures such as stingrays. With its vast coastline, pristine beaches, and diverse aquatic habitats, the Sunshine State provides several fantastic locations to find and observe these graceful creatures up close.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

One of the most popular places to see stingrays in Florida is at the renowned Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota. This world-class facility not only houses a wide array of marine life but also features a unique touch tank where visitors can interact with stingrays in a safe and supervised environment. The experience of feeling the smooth texture of their wings gliding under your fingertips is both thrilling and educational.

Florida Keys

For those seeking a more immersive encounter with these captivating creatures, heading to the Florida Keys is a must. The shallow and crystal-clear waters surrounding the Keys create a perfect habitat for stingrays. Adventurous snorkelers and divers can spot them gracefully gliding along the sandy seabed, especially in areas like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, known for its thriving marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

Everglades National Park

Another fantastic spot to find stingrays is the Everglades National Park, a vast subtropical wilderness that encompasses a mix of freshwater and saltwater habitats. Along the coastlines and estuaries, you can catch glimpses of stingrays cruising along the shallows during low tide, while boat tours into the park’s brackish waters provide an opportunity to observe these gentle creatures gracefully swimming beneath the surface.

Florida Gulf Coast

Furthermore, the Florida Gulf Coast boasts numerous beaches and coastal areas where you can sometimes encounter stingrays gliding near the shore. Locations like Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key, and St. Pete Beach are known for occasional stingray sightings, and a vigilant eye may reward beachgoers with a magical encounter.

Yellow stingray
Yellow stingray. Image via Shutterstock

A note about encountering stingrays in Florida

It is essential to approach these creatures with respect and caution, as they can be shy and may use their barbed tails for defense if they feel threatened. Many tour operators and beach facilities provide guidelines on how to observe and interact with stingrays responsibly, ensuring a positive experience for both humans and marine life.

Stingrays in Florida: Frequently Asked Questions

How common are stingray stings in Florida?

Stingray stings are relatively common in Florida due to the state’s warm waters and extensive coastline. However, with proper caution and awareness, incidents can be minimized, and most encounters with these gentle creatures remain harmless.

What month do stingrays come out?

Stingrays are active year-round in Florida’s waters, but their visibility may vary depending on the region and water temperature. In warmer coastal areas, like the Florida Keys, stingrays are more commonly spotted throughout the year, while in colder regions, sightings may be more prevalent during the spring and summer months.

What to do if you get stung by a stingray in Florida?

If stung by a stingray in Florida, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Rinse the wound with clean water to help remove any venom, but avoid using freshwater. Immersing the affected area in hot water (as hot as can be tolerated) may help alleviate pain until medical help arrives.

Conclusion

Florida offers a plethora of opportunities to witness the beauty of stingrays in their natural environment. Whether you prefer the controlled environment of an aquarium, the excitement of snorkeling in the Keys, or the serenity of coastal beaches, encountering stingrays in Florida promises to be an unforgettable experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for these captivating creatures and the marine ecosystems they call home.

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