Spotted Eagle Ray following me / strange behavior

[scubadada]

I was under the impression that Eagle Rays eat crustaceans and mollusks. I would not think they would be interested in the fish that divers spear.

My wife and I had an Eagle Ray stay very close to us on a shallow reef for about 5 minutes in Bonaire. It was not at all skittish as most generally seem to be. Yes, a very nice experience.

 

[TSalles]

I was under the impression that Eagle Rays eat crustaceans and mollusks. I would not think they would be interested in the fish that divers spear.

My wife and I had an Eagle Ray stay very close to us on a shallow reef for about 5 minutes in Bonaire. It was not at all skittish as most generally seem to be. Yes, a very nice experience.

Yes I too agree that they would not be interested in the fish. A previous reply brought up an interesting point how we may kick up some sediment with our fins and that might be attracting them. (considering they eat mollusks and other creatures on the ocean floor) Very good to know that you had a similar experience, and that not all rays are so shy! So cool! I hope I get to see the ray again, this time ill be less fearful but still exercise caution.

 

[bradStyle]

I'm going to go out on a limb and say I think Eagle Rays may be smart enough to seek out human help. They are quite intelligent. Mantas are the world's most intelligent fish, I don't think Eagle Rays are totally on the other side of that spectrum. Not saying that this one was necessarily asking for help, but it could have been. I can see how that would have been extremely nerve wracking for anyone who hasn't spent time with them, particularly a non-diver. Thanks for joining ScubaBoard to share this fascinating story with us!

I get to spend almost every day with them in the winter time. Absolutely love them.