A dense fog bank hid the horizon for most of our trip, but once it lifted, we struck gold — a friendly fever of Spinetail Devil Rays (Spinetail Mobulas). What made this encounter extraordinary was how curious they were.
Five to six rays circled the boat, gliding down the rail, wrapping around the stern, and lingering long enough for multiple passes. An incredibly rare sighting for San Diego, definitely Spicy El Niño gift from the sea.
We watched remoras hitching rides on their backs and tiny blue tropic fish weaving in and out of their mouths. Absolutely breathtaking.
Naturalist, Alison
