Five brand-new Spotted Eagle Rays have made their debut inside New Jersey’s Adventure Aquarium. With this arrival, officials said Adventure Aquarium officially becomes the only aquarium in the Northeast where guests can come face-to-face with this endangered species. Officials said the sting rays have been receiving expert care and around-the-clock monitoring from aquarium biologists and veterinary professionals behind the scenes for months ahead of their grand debut. In the aquarium’s Ocean Realm exhibit, guests can watch the rays fly through more than 760,000 gallons of water alongside sharks, sea turtles and many other extraordinary marine animals. Spotted Eagle Rays are known for their dramatic, white-spotted patterns and soaring wing-like fins. This species appears to “fly” beneath the surface as they glide underwater. While the Spotted Eagle Rays are currently around two to three feet in width and weigh between 25 and 33 pounds, officials said they are expected to grow significantly over time, reaching up to five-foot wingspans and weighing several hundred pounds. “This is an incredibly exciting moment for both the Aquarium and our guests,” said Nikki Grandinetti, General Curator at Adventure Aquarium. “Spotted Eagle Rays are such a dynamic species, and our animal care team has worked tirelessly to ensure they thrive in their new home. We’re thrilled to be able to share these amazing animals with the public while also inspiring deeper conversations around ocean conservation and protecting vulnerable marine species.” Officials said Spotted Eagle Rays are currently classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to overfishing and habitat loss, among other threats. Adventure Aquarium is focused on protecting and restoring shark and ray populations worldwide through public awareness, research, and conservation action, and the debut of the Spotted Eagle Rays continues the organization’s mission to deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors. To follow the rays’ journey and stay up to date on new experiences, follow Adventure Aquarium on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Tickets are also available at www.adventureaquarium.com. ...read more read less