Elba, an island full of eagle rays!
For several years now, eagle rays have been gathering at various diving sites around Elba, the large Italian island. However, neither Elba nor Pianosa have yet been identified by the IUCN SSC Shark Specialist Group as ISRAs (Important Shark and Ray Areas). So we got together at the Municipality of Capoliveri to gather the experience of local divers, who are lucky enough to encounter them regularly. Together, we will reconstruct the presence of the aggregations over time and even more importantly, with local authorities we will find a way to ensure a safe haven for this protected species, at least in these areas.
All together for the protection of the sea!
Special thanks to Talas Diving Center, Sporting Club Cavo Diving, Biodivers Elba Sea Academy, Baiarda Dive Excursions, Marina di Campo Diving Center, Spiro Sub Diving Elba, which has already sent us many images; the Consorzio Elbano dei Diving, which will support those who were unable to take part at the end of this season; and last but not least, the Municipality of Capoliveri and Federica and Vincenzo: if the city of eagles is born, much of the credit will go to them!
If you have also seen sharks and rays – and eagle rays! – in Elba or elsewhere, please let us know by filling out this form: https://tinyurl.com/LIFEEUSharksForm. It is not just to satisfy curiosity, but to work together with authorities, fishermen, divers, and citizens to find ways to safeguard this protected species.
