VERO BEACH — They’re shy, covered with distinctive, light spots, pose little danger to humans and enjoy feeding on small fish and crustaceans. Now, the exotic-looking sea creatures have been seen cruising gracefully through the coastal waters along Vero Beach.
But, swimmers and divers should always use caution if they come near these marine life creatures – called Spotted Eagle Rays – that have several venomous barbed stingers on their long tails, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials said.
The eagle rays – found in shallow coastal waters – are not aggressive and are unlikely to sting humans, FWC Officer Chad Weber said. The sea creatures are known to avoid contact with humans.
Weber offered tips on how swimmers can stay safe if they come near an eagle ray.
“Don’t approach them or pet them. Shuffle your feet to scare them off. If you step on them, they’re more likely to sting you,” Weber said. “Seek treatment or let a lifeguard know if you’re stung by one.”
Avid drone videographer Adam Larrabee, 32, of Vero Beach, captured footage of two Spotted Eagle Rays gliding through the water July 14 at Sexton Plaza Beach. The 1-minute mark showed one of the eagle rays not far from three swimmers in the water.
Video by Adam Larrabee
The eagle rays, which occasionally leap out of the water, are considered a favorite by divers worldwide because of the unmistakable spotted pattern marked across their backs.
The eagle rays can grow to a maximum of 17-feet-long, from the tip of the snout to the tip of the end of the tail, FWC officials said. The creatures’ wingspan can reach up to 10 feet.
Larrabee said there were about 15 swimmers in the ocean and nearly 50 people total at the beach when he saw the eagle rays. The longtime Vero Beach resident said it felt good to capture the moment on video.
“All my years here and I’ve never been that close to them,” Larrabee said.
Spotted Eagle Rays are protected in Florida state waters, according to the FWC website. FWC officials said humans should avoid handling the eagle rays or use extreme caution.
Larrabee is no stranger to Sexton Plaza Beach.
A devoted beachgoer, Larrabee said he goes skimboarding in the ocean daily. The marine enthusiast said he used to work at businesses at the plaza when he was a teen, including the longtime beachfront restaurant Ocean Grill, along with the Holiday Inn & Suites, now known as Ocean Breeze Inn.
“Growing up in Vero Beach most of my life, I’ve always had a passion for the ocean and its marine life,” Larrabee said. “From snorkeling with my parents, going to the beach almost daily or bringing my own kids to do the same now – I find my peace in the ocean.”
