Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has urged tourists to stop feeding protected ray species after receiving numerous complaints about the growing practice.

In a statement issued last night, the EPA expressed concern over the rise in feeding activities, which are harmful to protected species. Under national regulations, all ray species in the Maldives are protected, and any actions that harm them are prohibited.

The EPA highlighted that feeding rays disrupts their natural behaviour and increases safety risks for humans. Swimming with these creatures is a popular activity among locals and tourists, but improper interactions, such as feeding, can lead to injuries or even life-threatening accidents.

The agency noted that incidents often occur when sharks gather in feeding areas, which could affect tourism as well.