Cownose rays are a common species encountered in coastal waters. These rays, named for their unique head shape resembling a cow’s nose, inhabit shallow marine and brackish estuarine environments across the western Atlantic Ocean, from New England down to Brazil. They are known for their graceful swimming and often travel in large schools. Many people wonder about their potential danger, particularly concerning the presence of a barb.
The Cownose Ray’s Barb
Cownose rays possess a barb, located at the base of their tail. This spine is typically between 2 to 4 inches long and is positioned near the dorsal fins. The barb is made of a cartilaginous substance called vasodentin and features serrated edges, which can make it challenging to remove once it penetrates.
The spine is covered by a thin skin sheath that contains venom. When the barb is used, this sheath can break, allowing the venom to enter the wound. While the venom is not lethal to humans, it can cause significant pain, often described as similar to a bee sting. A sting can also lead to localized symptoms such as swelling. The spine tips can sometimes break off in the wound, which may lead to infection.
How Rays Use Their Barb
The barb of a cownose ray functions primarily as a defensive mechanism. Rays only use their barb when they feel threatened or are accidentally disturbed. Cownose rays are docile and not aggressive towards humans.
Stings most often occur due to accidental encounters, such as a person inadvertently stepping on a ray buried in the sand in shallow water. Because cownose rays tend to swim higher in the water column and rarely rest motionless on the seafloor, the likelihood of stepping on one is lower compared to some other ray species. However, like any wild animal, they will defend themselves if provoked or trapped.
Staying Safe Around Cownose Rays
To minimize the risk of a cownose ray sting, especially when wading in shallow, murky coastal waters where visibility is limited, practicing the “stingray shuffle” is recommended. This technique involves shuffling or dragging your feet along the sandy bottom instead of lifting them with each step. The vibrations created by shuffling alert any hidden rays to your presence, giving them time to swim away before an accidental encounter occurs.
It is also advisable to observe cownose rays from a distance and avoid attempting to handle them. If a sting does occur, immediate first aid is important. Carefully exit the water and clean the wound with fresh water to remove any sand or debris.
Soaking the affected area in hot water, as hot as can be tolerated without causing burns (ideally 110-115°F or 43-46°C), helps to denature the venom and can significantly reduce pain. The soaking should continue for 30 to 90 minutes, or until the pain subsides. For severe reactions, deep punctures, or if the barb remains embedded in the wound, seeking prompt medical attention is necessary.