Manta Swims By Diver. As He Gets Closer, The Diver See's Something Unusual And Springs Into Action

rescue
August 01, 2017

Cocoa Island, is a remote, protected, marine sanctuary off the coast of Costa Rica. It's incredible underwater wild life makes it popular with divers from all over the world. British instructor Paul Slater and American Don Shellhammer were out filming one of their dives when something completely unexpected happened.

The two spotted a giant manta ray swimming near them. As Paul approaches the manta he notices that it is tailing several meters of fishing line behind it. The fishing wire was wrapped around its body and digging into its flesh. The two men knew they need to do something to help.

As they swam up to the manta they could tell it was asking for help. They had no idea how long the poor thing was in this terrible condition. Paul and his dive master approached the ray from behind and began to cut through one of the ropes.

Rays are known to be shy and it scared the manta. It started to swim away. Though desperate for help it lets the men approach it again. This time they were able to cut all the ropes, freeing the manta from its terrible situation.

After the last rope was cut, the manta starts to swim off but soon returns to say THANK YOU to the cameras. The most amazing thing is the manta then continues to stay with the divers and swim with them for 25 minutes to show its gratitude.

It was such an amazing rescue to watch and we want to thank the two divers who stopped their plans to save the life of this manta. Watch the video of the rescue below:

If you loved this story, be sure to share it with your friends on Facebook!