Yesterday, in the water, I saw these three Spotted Eagle Rays heading my way. They were on the smaller side, but all in excellent condition, except for the slightly larger one that had lost much of its tail. The three made several languid loops around my wife and I before they finally eased away into shallower water.
The second photo gives a good view of the ray’s spiracles. They have one on each side, just above and behind the eye. These openings allow them to pass water through to the gills, even when they are digging for prey and churning up a lot of sand.
Graham's Island 
They are so beautiful!
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They are. It was a wonderful little interlude in the swim.
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I am sure it was!
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Indeed they are
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You are so fortunate to see them first hand. There sre a few species here but rather plainly coloured.
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This is the only eagle ray here but, especially when they’re young, the spots are beautiful.
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Stunning photos. You have captured these quiet creatures well. I feel relaxed just looking at a photo of them.
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These three were quite mellow and it as a joy to watch them gliding around.
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Spiracles – what a good word that is. Are they the jagged markings? Or am I looking for something too big?
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Not sure to which markings you refer, but the spiracles in the second photo are the round indents on the top of the head. Eagle rays have two, one on each side, though only the right side ones can be seen here.
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Fabulous Graham. I love Rays. I wonder if there are Spotted Rays here?
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