Stingrays are found in New Jersey waters, particularly during warmer months. These marine animals are a natural part of the coastal ecosystem. Understanding their habitats, common species, and safe practices can help minimize concerns for those enjoying the shore. Encounters are manageable, as their behavior is non-aggressive.
Where and When Stingrays Reside in New Jersey
Stingrays are common along the New Jersey coast, favoring shallow, warm waters with sandy or muddy bottoms. These areas provide ideal conditions for foraging and protection. They are frequently observed in bays, estuaries, and nearshore ocean waters, where they can easily bury themselves in the sediment.
Their presence in New Jersey is seasonal, aligning with rising water temperatures. Stingrays arrive in late spring and remain through early fall (May to October). As temperatures drop in winter, they migrate to deeper, warmer waters further south. This migratory pattern means peak human encounters coincide with peak beach season.
Identifying New Jersey’s Common Stingray Species
Two common stingray species in New Jersey are the Cownose Ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) and the Smooth Butterfly Ray (Gymnura micrura). The Cownose Ray is frequently observed along the Jersey Shore during summer months. It is characterized by its brown, kite-shaped body, a long, whip-like tail, and a distinctive head shape that resembles a cow’s nose. These rays are migratory and often travel in large schools.
The Smooth Butterfly Ray, while also present, has a broad, diamond-shaped disc that is much wider than it is long, giving it a “butterfly-shaped” appearance. Its coloration can range from brownish, gray, or green, often with small dark spots. This species prefers soft mud or sandy substrates in coastal waters and can also enter brackish estuaries. Unlike some other rays, the Smooth Butterfly Ray often lacks the traditional spine.
Safe Practices Around Stingrays
Exercising caution in areas where stingrays are present can help prevent accidental encounters. The “stingray shuffle” is a widely recommended practice when wading in shallow, sandy waters. Shuffling your feet along the bottom instead of lifting them creates vibrations and disturbs the sand, which alerts any buried stingrays to your presence, prompting them to swim away. Avoiding murky waters where visibility is low can also reduce the chance of stepping on an unseen ray.
If a sting occurs, immediate first aid measures can help alleviate discomfort and reduce complications. Exit the water and control any bleeding by applying direct pressure. The wound should be rinsed with fresh water to remove sand or debris. Soaking the affected area in hot water (110-113°F or 43-45°C) for 30 to 90 minutes is recommended, as heat neutralizes the venom and reduces pain.
Seek medical attention after a stingray injury, even if the pain subsides. Medical professionals ensure no barb fragments remain in the wound, clean the injury thoroughly, and assess for infection. While painful, stingray stings are rarely life-threatening unless the barb penetrates a sensitive area like the chest, neck, or abdomen, or if a severe allergic reaction occurs.