Underwater photographers and free divers recently took part in a heartwarming rescue mission, saving a mobula ray that had become entangled in a fishing line while circling amidst a group of sharks. This inspiring event unfolded beneath the waves off the coast of Baja California, Mexico, showcasing the beauty of teamwork and the kindness of nature.

The mobula ray was trapped over 30 feet below the ocean surface, ensnared in a rope connected to a shark fisherman's buoy. These graceful creatures, often referred to as flying rays or devil rays, are smaller and more diverse than their larger relatives, the giant manta rays, with about a dozen species currently thriving.

The team of divers, working in shifts, meticulously cut the rope to free the distressed ray, all while capturing the entire rescue on film. Among the dedicated divers was Andre Smits, an underwater photographer who played a crucial role in the operation. “We went to one of the shark fishermen’s buoys because we didn’t find any wildlife to interact with that day,” Smits shared. Upon discovering the ray in distress, their guide quickly called for assistance, igniting a collective effort to save the beautiful creature.

The rescue was a delicate endeavor, requiring the coordinated efforts of seven divers, all while keeping an eye on three 8-foot-long silky sharks circling nearby. One of the divers, a free-diving trainer, skillfully descended to cut the rope beneath the ray, enabling the team to gently guide the animal closer to the surface.

“It was completely entangled. The rope was going around almost every part of the ray,” Smits recalled. The team worked harmoniously, holding the frightened ray steady as they carefully cut away the ropes with their diving knives. The situation demanded precision and care, especially given the presence of the sharks and the potential for turbulence in the water.

Fortunately, the ray was freed from its constraints and, though it had sustained some injuries, it was able to swim away. The moment of release was a joyous occasion. “The beautiful thing was we cut her free, we released her, and she swam away about 30 meters and then it felt like she decided to come back,” Smits reflected. The ray returned, swimming in circles around the divers, as if expressing its gratitude in a heartfelt gesture—a “thank you” for the help it had received.

This uplifting story serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all marine life and the positive impact that compassionate actions can have on our ocean friends. It beautifully illustrates how kindness and teamwork can make a difference in the world, one creature at a time.