A pelagic species, the cownose ray can be found both near the coast and out in the open ocean throughout its range, and may be seen travelling in large aggregations of thousands of individuals. Location in the Zoo. The cownose ray has a venomous spine located directly behind the base of its dorsal fin. The female cownose ray is generally slightly smaller, with a width of 28 inches and a lighter weight of 36 pounds. This ray is named for the distinctive shape of its forehead, which bears two lobes resembling the nostrils of a cow’s nose. But even in large groups, the cownose ray is shy and not threatening. Scientific Name. The cownose ray is a species of eagle ray. Range. The male cownose ray grows to about 45 inches in width, with a weight of up to 50 pounds. Animal Facts. Rhinoptera. They get their name from their unique forehead, which resembles the nose of a cow. Kipp Aquarium. Shallow marine and brackish waters of the western Atlantic distributed from the northern US to Brazil, including through the Gulf of Mexico. It generally swims at the surface, posing minimal risk to humans who might accidentally step on its spine, which is the cause of most ray injuries. Cool Animal Fact. Cownose rays and humans. This ray is very large, and reaches adulthood rapidly.