Eagle Rays

Ocellated eagle rays (the Indo-Pacific species, split from the Atlantic Aetobatus narinari in 2010) cruise the reef edge with effortless wing-beats and a long whip-tail trailing behind. They're shy of bubbles, so most sightings are at a distance, with the ray gliding past and disappearing into the blue.

Best encounters are on cleaning stations and drop-offs. Maldives channels often produce schools during the southwest monsoon (roughly Jun–Nov). Bali (Manta Point), Andaman (Johnny's Gorge) and Sipadan walls are all reliable.

Watch their tails: they have a venomous barb at the base and will use it if cornered, though that's rare with respectful divers.