Giant manta rays, protected under the Endangered Species Act, are being captured off Florida’s coast and shipped overseas for display — and we must put a stop to it.

A recent video, reportedly filmed off Panama City Beach, Florida, shows a giant manta ray being captured by Dynasty Marine Associates, a company contracted by SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. This capture was allowed under a Marine Special Activity License (MSAL) issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

This is reportedly the second such capture, and it has sparked justifiable outrage. These majestic animals belong in the ocean — not in tanks halfway across the world.

We demand that the FWC and associated authorities take immediate action to:

Ban the issuance of any future MSALs that authorize the capture of manta rays.

Prohibit the export of Florida’s marine wildlife for exhibition in out-of-country parks and aquariums.
Launch a full, transparent review of current capture practices and their impact on Florida’s marine ecosystems.

Why this matters:

Manta rays are slow-growing, highly intelligent, and play a crucial role in marine ecosystems.

They are a protected species — allowing their capture for entertainment contradicts conservation efforts.
Florida should be a leader in ocean protection, not ocean exploitation.

Help us send a clear message: Florida’s marine life is not for sale.

📢 Sign this petition today to demand accountability and protection for our endangered ocean giants.

Who Should Sign:

Florida residents
Marine life advocates
Conservationists and scientists
Anyone who believes in ethical treatment of wildlife