Manta Rays, those winged fish, have become almost 'common' around the island. Photograohers at booth Maho Bay and Caneel Bay have posted video of the gorgeous creatures appearing too fly through the crystal clear waters.
There are two types of Mantas, Reef and Ocean. The former fare typically 10-feet in wingspan, while the Ocean type can grow to 25 feet and weigh 5,000 pounds. last year, Mantas qualified as a threatened sp[iecy to be protected by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals .
This video was posted on the Blog of Maho (see the full item here).
Several rays have been seen coursing along the Bay. They nicknamed one of them, "Manny".
"The National Park has even come out here (and other beaches) to post signs about not touching them," the Blog reported. "Manta Rays have a protective mucus membrane on their skin, and may develop infections or lesions if touched by snorkelers."
At Caneel, Guest Relations manager Chad was able to video a Ray swimming near the ferry dock, right off the main Caneel Beach … and almost close enough to use one of the beach chaise lounges.
"We also have had several confirmed sightings of a Manta Ray at Francis Bay recently, which is an unusual visitor in our shallower waters," Caneel reported on its Facebook page. "And right off Caneel Beach last week, a mother Dolphin with two babies paid us a visit."
I was snorkeling along Mary’s point in March and turned to find a 6′ manta right at my left shoulder. It was probably my favorite snorkeling moment – really magnificent!
Let’s hope that snorkelers don’t try to feed or interact further with them. They are wild animals and should be treated as such. A thing of beauty that graces our oceans.
Mantas and Humans
Mantas are inherently shy creatures. Touching, grabbing,or simply being in their “flight path” can cause them to be more shy, avoid divers and snorkelers, or leave the area all together. Touching the rays could also remove the protective coating on their skin and leave them susceptible to infections. By remaining calm and passive,the rays will gradually overcome their shyness of you.If you are patient, they will often grow so trusting they will brush lightly against you as they swoop in to feed. Remember that we are the greatest threat to marine animals and our interaction should be gentle and calming.
http://www.mantaraydiveshawaii.com/index.php/about-mantas