Discover

Today
Animals
Explore
Archive
Search

Use it

Classroom
Resources
Field lab
Quiz
Saved

Trust

Methodology
Sources
Corrections
Accessibility
Contributors

Details

About
Contact
Privacy
Terms
Newsletter

Animal profile

Thornback Ray

Raja clavata

ChondrichthyesSand, gravel and mud from the shoreline to about 300 metresNear Threatened

Field profile

The thornback ray is the most frequently encountered skate around Britain and Ireland, named for the stout thorns with swollen bases scattered across its back and tail. It feeds on crustaceans and small fishes and lays egg cases through much of the year.

Scope note

This is an editorial profile, not a diagnostic field-identification guide or a substitute for current conservation assessments. Follow the cited sources on each fact for the evidence trail.

Published field notes

2025-07-10

Thornback Ray

Thornback egg cases wash up more than any other

The leathery pouches beachcombers call mermaid's purses are skate egg cases, and in Britain the thornback's is the one most often found. Each has four horns, a felted surface, and once held a single embryo for months.

Read with evidence →

Thornback Ray | Daily Animal Facts