Giant Stingray Trapped in Rota Tidal Pools Prompts Urgent Community Rescue

ROTA, Spain – A dramatic animal rescue unfolded this week at the Natural Monument of Los Corrales de Rota, where a colossal black stingray, estimated to weigh over 100 kilograms, became trapped in a shallow tidal pool during low tide. The incident sparked a concerted effort by local 'corraleros' and volunteers to save the stranded marine creature. Andrés Barba, a veteran 'corralero' and local expert, documented the challenging rescue. "We found this giant black stingray, a Taeniurops grabata, trapped in the Corrales de Rota," Barba stated in a video. "It has been here for six or seven hours and is having difficulty breathing." He explained that the team’s immediate priority was to keep the animal alive by continuously refreshing the water in the pool with oxygenated seawater, using buckets to transport it from deeper areas. Barba emphasized the stingray's impressive size, noting it could be one of the largest specimens encountered in the area, potentially exceeding 110-120 kilograms. He also issued a caution regarding the animal's powerful defense mechanism. "They don't usually attack, but they have a defense system that requires extreme care," he warned, pointing out the stingray's formidable, dagger-like barb at the end of its tail. "When they exert force, it's like that barb drills into you with a pneumatic hammer. There have been serious accidents with these animals." The rescue team plans to remain with the stingray, providing it with fresh water and monitoring its condition, until the incoming tide is high enough to allow the exhausted animal to swim back to the open sea. The community hopes the stingray will recover and successfully return to its natural habitat.

La Voz Digital

one month ago

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