Five Majestic Spotted Eagle Rays Soar into Ocean Realm at Adventure Aquarium

CAMDEN, N.J. (May 21, 2026) – Adventure Aquarium is making an unforgettable splash this Memorial Day Weekend with the dazzling debut of five brand-new Spotted Eagle Rays inside its iconic Ocean Realm exhibit. With this arrival, Adventure Aquarium officially becomes the only aquarium in the Northeast where guests can come face-to-face with this endangered species.

Beginning today, the Spotted Eagle Rays are permanent residents of Ocean Realm and can be viewed by all guests. To celebrate the rays’ arrival, Adventure Aquarium will host special themed programming from Thursday, May 21 through Monday, May 25, including educational exhibit talks with animal experts and themed craft activities.

Elegant, otherworldly and instantly mesmerizing, Spotted Eagle Rays are among the most awe-inspiring animals in the ocean. Known for their dramatic, white-spotted patterns, soaring wing-like fins and graceful movements through the water, the stingray species appears to “fly” beneath the surface as they glide effortlessly through Ocean Realm’s massive underwater habitat.

After months of behind-the-scenes preparation, expert care and around-the-clock monitoring by Adventure Aquarium’s team of biologists and veterinary professionals, the rays are now ready to make their magnificent public debut. In Ocean Realm, guests can watch the rays fly through more than 760,000 gallons of water alongside sharks, sea turtles and many other extraordinary marine animals.

While the Spotted Eagle Rays are currently around two to three feet in width and weigh between 25 and 33 pounds, 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.”

Spotted Eagle Rays (Aetobatus ocellatus) are currently classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List due overfishing and habitat loss, among other threats. Adventure Aquarium is a proud participant in the AZA SAFE Shark and Ray program, a collaborative conservation initiative focused on protecting and restoring shark and ray populations worldwide through public awareness, research and conservation action.

The debut of the Spotted Eagle Rays continues Adventure Aquarium’s mission to deliver jaw-dropping, unforgettable experiences that connect guests with the beauty, mystery and wonder of the underwater world. Tickets are available at www.adventureaquarium.com. To follow the rays’ journey and stay up to date on new experiences, follow Adventure Aquarium on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.