Nature Field Guide
Leopard Roundray
- Spanish name
- Raya redonda leopardo
- Scientific name
- Urobatis pardalis
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
A quiet shape on the seabed might be easy to miss. Pico and Tati give rays space and let a marine guide help them observe.
Species overview
About the Leopard Roundray
Urobatis pardalis is a round ray described from Costa Rican Pacific specimens. Its upper surface is pale brown with darker small spots and short wavy markings. It uses sand, rubble and rocky seabeds near reefs. Older local references may apply the name Urobatis halleri; these names should not be treated as automatically interchangeable.
Identification
Key Features of the Leopard Roundray
A rounded disc
Small dark spots and short wavy markings on a pale brown upper surface
A relatively short tail with a rounded fin
Habitat & range
Suitable underwater coastal habitat. Use a permitted guided snorkeling or viewing activity appropriate to your family; do not enter the sea just to find this animal.
Local observations
Documented in Guanacaste. Type specimens document Playa Escondida near Herradura and Bahia Pavones, Golfito, in addition to Guanacaste. Region tags represent documented locations, not an exhaustive range or a promise of occurrence at every beach. Additional regional assignments require locality evidence.
When to observe
Visibility depends on the site, conditions and the animal. Ask a local guide about an appropriate visit; no fixed encounter season is promised.
Conservation & care
Observe rays without approaching, touching, feeding, cornering or following them. Stay with a qualified local guide and follow their instructions about entering and moving in the water.
Observation activity
Use a verified photograph to compare the ray’s outline with a fish’s outline. Keep the scientific name beside your drawing.