It is illegal to fish for or kill this beautiful and charismatic ray in Florida waters, however they are not protected under federal laws and international protections are limited as well. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), an organization that establishes the conservation status of species worldwide, lists them as near-threatened with a decreasing population trend. In some countries, spotted eagle rays are harvested as food and are caught as bycatch (unintentional catch in commercial fisheries that target other species). Spotted eagle rays also face a variety of threats from habitat loss, harmful algal blooms and entanglement in fishing gear. These threats, combined with their extremely low reproductive rate, make these rays vulnerable to population declines.

Raising awareness is important, but it’s not enough! We all need to take action to help turn the tide. We worked with our science partners to create subject specific post cards that explain the top beneficial actions you can take on behalf of the species or ecosystem you’re supporting with your purchase. Shipped with every order, these cards are informative, beautiful and ready for a stamp so you can share it with a friend. 

Our team of salty science communicators hit the library and dug up everything you need to know about the species or ecosystem you’re supporting with your purchase. From past history and current status to future conservation challenges and specific ways you can get more involved, each series takes a deep dive into the causes we support so you can stay informed.

Each series consists of around 8 parts, emailed to you each week after your order is delivered.  And fear not, you can unsubscribe at any time, but we promise you won’t want to ;-) 

5% of sales from your purchase are donated to high-impact research and education organizations that are experts in their specific fields. We encourage you to learn more about these amazing organizations here. Purchases from this collection donate to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium's Sharks & Rays Conservation Research Program.