Rhinoptera bonasus

Cownose Rays are highly social and migrate in large schools, sometimes numbering in the thousands. They feed primarily on clams, oysters, and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates, using their powerful jaws to crush shells. Their gentle nature and tendency to swim near the surface make them a common sight in bays and estuaries.

Cownose Rays have one of the lowest reproductive rates among marine animals. Females give birth to a single pup after a long gestation period of about 11–12 months. Newborn pups emerge fully formed and are able to swim immediately, though the species' slow reproduction makes populations vulnerable to overfishing.

They have a diamond-shaped body with pointed wing tips and a long, whip-like tail that may carry a venomous spine. Their distinctive forehead lobes help them locate and manipulate prey buried in sand. Adults typically measure 2.5–3 feet (0.7–0.9 m) across, with larger individuals exceeding this size.

Cownose Rays are native to the western Atlantic, ranging from New England through the Gulf of Mexico and as far south as Brazil. Historically, they have been misunderstood as major predators of shellfish, though research shows their ecological impact is often overstated.

While not listed as endangered, Cownose Rays face population pressure from habitat degradation, accidental bycatch, and targeted culls based on misconceptions. Conservationists emphasize the need for science-based management to protect their slow-reproducing populations.