Near Threatened· population decreasing· assessed 2020

Golden Ray

Rhinoptera steindachneri

Sighting evidence at Punta Mangle, Fernandina Island

Massive aggregations of golden cownose rays sometimes number in the thousands at Punta Mangle during the warm season, filling the water column in an undulating golden curtain that is one of the great spectacles of Eastern Pacific marine life. These aggregations are migratory and not predictable every year, but when they occur they are overwhelming — divers report the sound of thousands of rays' wings beating in the water and the sensation of being surrounded in every direction by golden forms. Even small groups of a few dozen individuals make for extraordinary photography in the clear, calm conditions of the sheltered bay.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Golden Ray is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.