Hundreds of Manta Rays Leap into the Air

Are these mysterious rays trying to fly? Here we see a large group of rays performing acrobatic leaps as they breach the ocean surface. These flying rays, sometimes known as mobula or devil rays, are very mysterious. They are known for their characteristic breaching, often performing spectacular jumps in large numbers. Marine Biologists cannot reach a consensus as to why they breach, but a a variety of answers have been put forward. One possible explanation is to avoid being eaten by predators, such as hammerhead and bull sharks. A second and more likely explanation for this behavior is social. The jumping may play a role in courtship and assertion of dominance, or simply communication among the larger group. A third plausible explanation is that breaching the surface could help clean the rays of parasitic suckers on their skin... But still, no final answer suffices. So whats really going on? Could something truly amazing be going on... Could they be evolving, and trying to learn to fly? Do they think they can fly? Or are they just having fun? Let us know what you think.