Projects
Total Egg Case Count: 2,229
Biodiversity Surveys
Biodiversity surveys began in 2021 along the Wexford coast. Egg casings lying on the beach were collected, measured, identified and recorded.
This research was conducted to better understand which skate species are found in our surrounding waters and identify which species is most abundant.
If you have any egg cases that you would like us to help identify, we would love to hear from you!
In Water Egg Laying Sites
Our 5 year project for Ireland is to identify and map species specific lay sites for native nearshore skates. We have been working with Seasearch Ireland and so far we have identified lay sites for the Thornback skate (Raja clavata).
This year we aim to investigate several suspected Flapper skate (Dipturus batis) lay sites and petition to get the first Skate on the protected species list in Ireland!
Next year we hope to expand our project further to identify more sites and advocate for their protection. If you are a scuba diver and would like to get involved with a citizen scientist project learning how to search and identify skate lay sites please get in touch!
Mapping of Rays and Skates
Collecting images of Skates and Rays in the ocean is incredibly important. It helps us identify individuals using AI spot pattern tracking and can lead us to key habitat sites for each species. Download our photo ID guide below to find out the best protocol for photographing wildlife.
If you have any images of skates or rays in Irish waters, we would love for you to fill out our sightings form here.
If you would like access to this data, email our Managing Director - maya@therayproject.org. We are always interested in sharing data for the sake of Rays and Skates worldwide.