MARINA DEL REY, Calif.
dozens of stingrays in the waters off Marina del Rey.
Mother’s Beach, a popular spot for kayakers and swimmers.
“We just saw the stingrays Tuesday night. We were walking over to our friend’s boat and this one lady was taking pictures and there were about 200 of them,” said Sheila Butler, a Marina del Rey resident.
The stingrays weren’t tiny, either.
Experts advise those who plan to go into the water to do what’s called a “stingray shuffle,” which will scare off the stingrays.
Lifeguard Capt. Kenichi Haskett says stingrays like the heat and that they’re seeing more of them this summer as compared to last summer.
“The numbers are high because of the water. They like that still, calm, warm water,” Haskett said.
Lifeguards have been hauling around stingray first aid bags in case people’s arms or legs are stung by their venomous barbs.
“So basically, we fill this up with as hot water or as hot as the water can be that the patient can take and let them soak in it for 15-45 minutes,” he said.
At least 100 people have reportedly been stung in just the past month along the water from Zuma Beach down to San Pedro.