Sea Cats Appear in Odesa Region - What is the Danger.

Stingrays are once again being observed in the Black Sea, which have a poisonous spine on their tails. Ecologists urge vacationers to be cautious: the ray does not attack first but can deliver a painful sting if it feels threatened.

This was reported on the page of the National Nature Park 'Tuzly Limans' on Facebook.

Stingrays in the Black Sea

Ecologists speak of the activity of stingrays living in the Black Sea. These fish hide in the sand near the shore and can be dangerous to people. They have been named 'sea cats' due to their hunting style: they quietly lie on the bottom, lying in wait, and then quickly dart at their prey. The stingray has a sharp serrated spine with which it defends itself. If accidentally stepped on, the animal can sting, and it will be very painful. There have been cases where such injuries required medical assistance.

What Stingrays Look Like

Stingrays are usually peaceful and do not approach areas crowded with people. They are now actively coming into shallow waters to hunt. They camouflage well in the sand, have a diamond-shaped body, a long tail, and eyes that resemble beans. The average length of a stingray ranges from 80 cm to 2.5 meters, and they can weigh up to 22 kg. Ecologists advise being careful while swimming, especially in the morning or after a storm when rays may hide near the shore. It is best to avoid unusual 'spots' on the bottom and refrain from contact with these fish.