MASTER CLASS - STINGRAY-OLOGY
OVERVIEW - THE MASTERS' CLASS
Join Keith Cooper—fondly known as the “Stingray Whisperer”—in an exclusive, hands-on exploration of Southern Stingrays in the crystal-clear waters of West End, Grand Bahama Island. With decades of experience and a genuine passion for these majestic creatures, Keith has pioneered safe and respectful handling techniques that allow for meaningful, up-close encounters.
OBJECTIVES
In this master class, you’ll:
- Learn Proven Methods: Dive into Keith’s tried-and-true approach for calmly interacting with Southern Stingrays, ensuring both you\r safety and the animals’ well-being.
- Develop Genuine Connections: Gain insight into stingray behavior and communication cues, enabling you to form a deeper, more harmonious bond with these gentle creatures.
- Appreciate Their Habitat: Understand the unique environment of West End’s waters and discover how stingrays thrive in their natural surroundings.
- Build Confidence & Respect: From the initial approach to direct contact, master safe handling techniques that minimize stress for both you and the stingrays.
COURSE HIGHLIGHTS
- Introduction to Stingray Biology
- Learn about Southern Stingrays’ behavior, habitat, and anatomy.
- Understand their role in the marine food chain and why their conservation matters.
- Safe Handling & Best Practices
- Discover Keith’s step-by-step techniques for interacting with stingrays in a calm, respectful manner.
- Understand safety protocols for both you and the stingrays to ensure a positive, non-disruptive encounter.
- In-Water Experience
- Practice under close supervision with Keith, as you learn to approach and handle stingrays without causing them stress.
- Develop confidence in the water while honing your new skills.
- Conservation & Stewardship
- Gain insight into local conservation efforts.
- Learn how responsible ecotourism can support stingray protection and marine habitat restoration.
FINAL TEST & REC0GNITION
At the end of the course, participants will take a practical and written test to demonstrate their proficiency in stingray handling techniques and understanding of stingray biology. Upon successful completion, each participant will be awarded a Recognition Plaque commemorating their achievement as a certified graduate of the “Master Class – Stingray-ology.” This plaque is a symbol of both the skills acquired and a commitment to responsible marine-life interaction.