Costa Rica can seem like surfing heaven with its miles of quality breaks, crystal clear bath temperature waters and endless sunshine. However, as is the case with much of the world's tropical and sub-tropical coastal waters, they are home to stingrays and while we were there my partner Chris unfortunately got stung. He maintains that it is the single most painful thing that has ever happened to him and this from a man who carries plenty of battle scars. Within the space of a few minutes he went from okay to almost complete collapse and I had to virtually carry him from the beach to get help (no mean feat as he's a big bloke). Although the locals knew what to do I have now learned that it is always better to be forewarned and therefore forearmed. The purpose of this blog is to explain how to avoid a stingray injury and what to do if you do get stung.
PHOTO CREDIT - SI SI AY
Avoiding Stingrays
The stingray, which is actually related to the shark, carries venom glands on the underside of its long, thin tail which ends in a barbed stinger. This tail is used whip-like, usually up and over its back, to drive the stinger into its target with a forceful stabbing action. It is only ever used for self-defence.
Deneice