Oh, the beauty of the Manta Rays!
Also known as "Devil rays" they are present in the Gulf of Mexico.
They are absolutely beautiful to watch.
I've never been fortunate enough to see them in person.
With the exception of a very small one while paddleboarding one day.
The only way I've seen them is in videos online.
Giant Manta rays are typically found in coastal and shelf edge waters.
The highest amount of nearshore rays are found near the Mississippi River Delta.
They are most common from April to June and from October to November
They range in size from almost 7.5 feet across, with the adults can have wingspans up to 22 feet!
The scientific community has discovered a giant manta ray nursery in the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary.
This is about 70 miles offshore from Galveston, Texas.
Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary map.
Juvenile rays are cared for during their first 4-5 years here.
They then venture out into deeper waters as Adults.
They reach sexual maturity at about 10 years of age.
They only give birth to a single pup every 2 or 3 years.
They prefer warm nutrient rich water which is full of plankton.
They are filter feeders eating both plankton and small fish.
They sweep them into their mouths using their pectoral fins.
Fascinating beauty by our creator.
I'm glad he gives us so many creatures to marvel about!
"Devil Rays", Acrylic on wood, 21.5 inches
Day 45 of the 100 days~100 paintings 2026
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