Drone footage shows rare bird’s-eye view of stingrays off New York coast

Aerial drone footage has provided marine enthusiasts with a unique perspective on a rare sight off the coast of New York: hundreds of cownose rays gliding through the water. These large, migratory elasmobranch fish with distinctive, high-lobed heads resembling cow noses typically arrive in Long Island waters during the warmer months, following optimal water temperatures as they migrate north from the Chesapeake Bay and other southern waters.

The drone footage, captured last Friday off Southampton, Long Island, shows dozens of cownose rays swimming near the surface in a group often referred to as a "fever." The shy and non-aggressive rays, known for their 3ft wing spans, feed primarily on bivalves like clams.

Experts suggest that the increased sightings may be due to rising ocean temperatures caused by climate change, altering the timing and range of the rays' migration. Dean Grubbs of Florida State University notes that historically, small numbers of cownose rays would reach Cape Cod during warm years, but now, larger schools are migrating further north as waters warm.

Cownose rays have been documented in New York's waters since the 1800s, though they were often mistaken for sharks due to their wing-like fins. While previously limited to surf and bay waters, the drone footage suggests these rays may now remain in New York's coastal region longer and migrate north earlier in the spring.

Observations from the drone provide valuable insights into the behavior and movement of these often elusive rays, helping researchers estimate their population sizes more accurately. However, experts caution that the ease of capturing such footage through drone technology may lead to observer bias. The drone footage underscores both the beauty of these marine creatures and the importance of understanding changes in their migration patterns due to shifting ocean temperatures.