Stingrays

Stingrays

The stingrays are a family of many different kinds of stingrays, ranging in size from 6 inches across in the case of the smallest species to about six feet across in the largest stingray, the short-tailed variety. The stingray’s tail is long, measuring up to 15 inches, and delivers poisonous venom as a self-defense mechanism. Stingrays rarely attack aggressively; most stings are delivered when they are stepped on by humans. If a stingray’s tail brushes against you while swimming, this will not usually deliver a sting. When humans are stung, it very rarely results in death, but rather a poisoning.

First aid remedies for stingray stings include hot water, local anesthetic and urine. Unlike with jellyfish stings, vinegar is not effective. Stingray injuries usually remain painful for around 48 hours, and should always be checked out by a doctor. Death can occur from stingray poison, although is not common. Australian wildlife fanatic, Steve Irwin, was killed by a stingray while snorkeling in Australia in 2006.