Stingrays

Stingrays are fish with flat bodies and wide fins that look like wings. They glide through the water almost like birds flying. Stingrays live in warm oceans, rivers, and lakes. They are related to sharks. Most stingrays are gentle unless they feel scared.

How They Live

Stingrays spend a lot of time resting on the sandy sea floor. They cover themselves with sand to hide. Their eyes are on top of their bodies, but their mouths are underneath. Stingrays eat clams, shrimp, and small fish. They use flat teeth to crush hard shells.

Their Sharp Tail

Stingrays have a long, whip-like tail with a sharp spine. The spine has venom that can hurt other animals. Stingrays only use it when they feel in danger. If you walk in shallow water, shuffle your feet. This lets stingrays know you are coming so they can swim away.

Fun Facts

• Some stingrays can grow wider than 6 feet across.
• Stingrays do not have bones, only soft cartilage.
• A group of stingrays is called a fever.

Did You Know?

Stingrays can feel the tiny electric signals made by other animals. This helps them find food hidden under the sand.