Lefty was identified June 1, 1979 by Steve Myklebust. This is almost 4o years ago! She was about 8 feet across when first identified.
Lefty was one of the most famous manta rays. Unfortunately we have not seen her since April of 2016.
She was easily identified by her paralyzed left cephalic fin. When she was feeding her fin usually flopped below or directly into her mouth. When she was not feeding and her cephalic fins were rolled up, her left fin pointed inward at a right angle instead of straight out in front of her. She frequented Manta Heaven, but was also seen often at Manta Village. She was known to brush bellys with snorkelers or grace over a diver’s head, leaving guests with an experience they would never forget.
DESCRIPTION OF MARKINGS
Lefty had a diamond shaped spot with a space between her spot pattern.
DESCRIPTION OF ABNORMALITIES/SCARRING
Lefty’s left cephalic fin was paralyzed. She also had scarring from a boat propeller injury on her right wingtip.
IDENTIFICATION DATE
June 1, 1979
GENDER
Female
SIZE OF WINGSPAN
12-13 feet
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