Hundreds of Endangered Stingrays Found Dead on the São Paulo Coast

More than a hundred stingrays were found lifeless this Tuesday (25) on the beaches of Itararé and Ilha Porchat in São Vicente, on the coast of São Paulo. Images recorded show the animals belonging to the species popularly known as ‘Ticonha,’ which is at risk of extinction.

According to gathered information, researchers identified at least 132 stingrays just on the stretch of sand located in front of the city’s cable car. Professor and biologist from the São Paulo State University (Unesp), Otto Bismarck Gadig, explained in an interview with TV Tribuna that the specimens found varied between males and females, including both young and adult individuals.

The São Vicente City Hall reported that it requested the support of the Gremar Institute to carry out the counting, identification, and removal of the animals but did not disclose the total number of stingrays found or their final destination.

According to the biologist, during the summer, schools of hundreds of stingrays approach the São Paulo coast in search of food, such as shells and mollusks. The main hypothesis is that these stingrays were victims of trawl fishing or caught in nets. “Probably, the fishermen realized that it was an endangered species and ended up returning the animals to the sea, but they were already beyond saving,” Otto explained. He also highlighted that similar cases have occurred before and that capturing endangered species, even accidentally, constitutes an environmental crime.

The city’s Department of the Environment (Semam) has launched an investigation to determine the possible causes of the animals’ deaths. The Gremar Institute has not yet commented on the incident.

The expert warns that if someone finds a stranded stingray, it is best to avoid any direct contact, as the animal’s sting remains dangerous even after death. The recommendation is to immediately contact the appropriate environmental authorities so they can take necessary measures.

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