Pregnant Stingray In North Carolina Mountain Aquarium Despite Lack of Male Partner

Charlotte is a pregnant stingray in North Carolina safely kept at the Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO in Henderson, North Carolina, which was met with worldwide news coverage. It was even a hot news item on Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update." Every day folks are asking if the babies have arrived. But more curiosity comes from how Charlotte was impregnated.

The current Aquarium opened in 2011 to support the ever-increasing demand for classes and programs.

In 2021, the nonprofit's staff reached 4,500 people in classes and programs and hit 10,000 visitors through the doors.

Now something new has captured the world's attention.

This ultrasound belongs to Charlotte, a round stingray that's about 13 years old and will soon give birth to more than one baby.

Reports say Charlotte, who can give birth at any time, has never been around a male.

That is except for a shark or two.

Rumors are swirling around that this one could be the baby daddy, but experts think that is unlikely.

Another possibility is the process of parthenogenesis, which is a way to reproduce when an egg can develop into an embryo without being fertilized by a sperm.

So it is fitting that during Women's History Month, the world awaits the coming babies from this lovely stingray with a sweet chocolate chip sea star resting with her.

Of course, the Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO is always showcasing gorgeous and interesting sea creatures.

With plenty of curious souls who benefit from this cool, educational center.

The pregnant stingray in North Carolina will soon be a family. Look for updates on the Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO Facebook page. Do you know about parthenogenesis? Please share with us in the comments below.

Discover more about stingrays in this book from Barnes & Noble. And if you're in town awaiting the births, have a meal and dessert at Harry's Grill and Piggy's Ice Cream in Hendersonville.