Thursday, April 14, 2022
(Virginia Beach, VA) – A spotted eagle ray gave birth to two female pups at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. The rays, born on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, mark a significant milestone for the Virginia Aquarium and for zoos and aquariums worldwide. Spotted eagle ray reproduction is exceedingly rare, and the typical gestation period can be from six to 13 months. Spotted eagle rays are listed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and are included in a Species Survival Plan through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
The newborns were born to mother Sadana, named after the Sadana Islands on the northern coast of the Red Sea. Newborn spotted eagle rays do not require parental care and are self-sufficient at birth. Currently, the pups are in an off-exhibit area while staff continue to closely monitor their diets, behaviors, and welfare. Our veterinary and animal care teams are providing the pups with additional nutritional support as they get better at eating on their own. The pups will be transported to a new home at a fellow AZA facility once they reach six to twelve months old.
Stay tuned to our social channels to keep up with the spotted eagle ray pups as new milestones are met. Support our mission and the work performed by our team by making a gift.
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Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. The Aquarium is also a member of World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Virginia Aquarium's mission is to inspire conservation of the marine environment through education, research, and sustainable practices. It is located at 717 General Booth Boulevard, just south of Rudee Inlet in Virginia Beach. Visit www.VirginiaAquarium.com for more information.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, supports the work of the Virginia Aquarium. The Foundation procures and maintains the Aquarium's exhibits, including the animals and habitats. It is also responsible for annual and capital fundraising, administration and funding for the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program, conservation and scientific research efforts, and the Aquarium's mission-related education programs. You can be a part of our mission by making a tax-deductible donation to support our programming.
