The Florida Aquarium’s Stingrays Return to TECO’s Manatee Viewing Center
January 21, 2026
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Seven cownose stingrays from The Florida Aquarium are once again gliding through Cownose Cove at TECO’s Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach. The return marks the reopening of the popular touch habitat following extensive repairs after damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The seven male cownose rays, known for the uniquely shaped “cow-like” nose that gives the species its name, were not in their Apollo Beach habitat during either storm and were cared for at The Florida Aquarium’s downtown Tampa campus throughout construction. After months of work, the animal care team transported the rays back to their newly restored 8,300-gallon habitat. The rays have been a favorite feature at the Manatee Viewing Center since 2016, offering guests a hands-on opportunity to connect with marine life.
“We’re thrilled to welcome these rays back home to Cownose Cove,” said Cristy Barrett, Curator of Exhibits, Acquisition, and Quarantine at The Florida Aquarium. “The reopening reflects nearly a year of dedicated work by our animal care, facilities, and life support teams to restore the habitat and create an enriching environment where guests can learn about cownose rays and experience firsthand how calm, curious, and resilient these animals are.”
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO & SOUND OF THE STINGRAYS’ MOVE + PHOTOS OF THE STORM DAMAGE
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium
Damage from Two Historic Storms
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused significant flooding at the Manatee Viewing Center, submerging the habitat and compromising portions of the filtration system. Weeks later, Hurricane Milton brought additional challenges when strong winds scattered fiberglass insulation from a nearby destroyed building into the area, contaminating the habitat and filtration components. As a result, Aquarium teams completed a comprehensive rebuild of Cownose Cove.
Touch the Stingrays at Cownose Cove
Following their return, the animal care team has been closely monitoring the stingrays’ behavior to ensure they are comfortable in their restored environment. Now fully acclimated, touch interactions are open to the public. Visitors can get up close with the stingrays at TECO’s Manatee Viewing Center, which is open daily from November 1 through April 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public.
To learn more about The Florida Aquarium, visit flaquarium.org.
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