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See the full story · 1 sourcesSOCIETY Oceanic manta ray spotted feeding off coast of Jones Beach By Eyewitness News Saturday, August 22, 2026 5:09PM Stream New York's #1 news - AccuWeather - original content 24/7 JONES BEACH, Long Island (WABC) -- A stunning sight was captured off the coast of Long Island as an oceanic manta ray was spotted feeding close to shore.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shared video of the manta ray swimming in the waters off Jones Beach State Park.
While oceanic manta rays are commonly found in offshore waters and inhabit tropical, subtropical and temperate regions, the DEC says the species can occasionally be spotted in New York waters during the warm summer months.
Manta rays are filter feeders that consume large quantities of zooplankton when feeding closer to shore. In deeper waters, they can also forage for medium-sized fish, according to the DEC.
The massive marine animals can weigh more than 4,000 pounds and live for up to 40 years.
The DEC did not provide additional details about when the manta ray was spotted.
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