Mantas are found in temperate, subtropical and tropical waters. Both species are pelagic; Manta birostris migrates across open oceans, singly or in groups, while Manta alfredi tends to be resident and coastal. They are filter feeders and eat large quantities of zooplankton, which they swallow with their open mouths as they swim. Gestation lasts over a year, producing live pups. Mantas may visit cleaning stations for the removal of parasites. Like whales, they breach, for unknown reasons.

May 29, 2013

Commissioned • Cuttlebone • Hand carved