Ever since the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, was killed by a stingray, stingrays have been given a bad reputation.A These docile animals very rarely attack in the wild and usually only when attacked themselves.A Now that my disclaimer is out of the way, time to swim with the fishes.

Stingray City is located off of the coast in the Grand Caymans.A This is the locale where hundreds of stingrays venture to be fed and mingle with the crowds.A For many years, the fishermen would clean their nets and dump this trash in this area.A The stingrays would swim to this area for easy pickings and eventually became accustomed to the handouts.A Fishermen became intrigued and continued to dump their “net leavings” here.

Being around humans for so long actuallyA trained the stingrays to be almost domesticated.A Today the thousands of tourists keep these creatures well fed and continue to build the human-stingray bond.A I was very honored to be an ambassador for all of mankind.

Just a brief ten minute boat ride and you have arrived to this awesome place.A Once you get there you will see numerous stingrays together in what looks like a blackish blob.A The moment you get out of your boat and put your squid-filled hand into the water the blob will emerge upon you.A There are hundreds that will come right up to you.A They are all sizes.

I actually was a little freaked out at first.A They are not bashful at all and will swarm to you and all around you.A The moment I reached out and touched one, my nerves subsided immensely.A Stingrays are extremely soft to the touch.A (Baby butts everywhere are jealous.)A Just remember to stick to the body and avoid the tail.

To feed them is kind of strange, too.A They are bottom feeders, so their mouths are on the bottom of their bodies.A Stingrays will suck the food from the ocean floor or right out of your hands.A Just like a vacuum cleaner.A Very interesting.

To visit their city, look for the numerous tours advertised, and choose your favorite.

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