A ShoreRivers team monitoring underwater grass beds in the Lower Choptank River in Maryland spotted something unusual in the water recently: a juvenile Skate.
Cownose Rays are common in the Choptank—a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay—but other Rays and Skates are not.
“It’s unusual because they are a high-salinity animal, so prefer other spots,” says Matt Pluta, Choptank Riverkeeper. “We are more mid-salinity, in the 12-15 ppt (parts per thousand) range.”
By comparison, the Atlantic Ocean—the saltiest major ocean— is 33 – 37 ppt.
The fish was located close to Irish Bay, although it hasn’t been seen since. But it’s presence—and an increase in the number of Cownose Rays—tells us something may be changing in local waters. “It tells us we are saltier than normal,” Pluta says.
In case you spot a Ray—or Skate— look but don’t touch. “When it comes to wildlife, keep your distance and just observe,” Pluta recommends.
