Dive sites2
Marine life profile
Flying Gurnard
Recorded at 2 dive sitesWhere divers encounter it
Explore Flying Gurnard around the world
The flying gurnard, also known as the helmet gurnard, is a species of Syngnathiformes fish belonging to the family Dactylopteridae. It walks over sand on finger-like fin rays, opening its fans when startled or displaying.
Countries2
Animal groupOther
Safety profileGenerally Harmless
Meet the species
What to look for
How to Recognize It
A bottom-dwelling fish that transforms when it spreads enormous fan-like pectoral fins edged with vivid blue.
How It Behaves
It walks over sand on finger-like fin rays, opening its fans when startled or displaying.
Special Ability
Those spectacular wings do not power true flight. They make the fish appear suddenly larger and harder to attack.
Dive responsibly
Share the water well
How to Approach
Approach slowly, stay neutrally buoyant and let the animal control the encounter.
Safety
Do not touch, feed or restrain wildlife. Give unfamiliar animals extra space and follow local guidance.
Worth knowing
The detail you remember
Interesting Facts
It is a bottom-dwelling fish that inhabits tropical to warm temperate waters on both sides of the Atlantic.
Where to Find
Search the habitat edges where food, shelter and water movement create the right conditions.
Known countries
United States of America (USA)Malta
Sightings map
Flying Gurnard locations
Plan a dive
Dive sites with reported encounters
Honolua Bay
United States of America (USA)
During the winter months Honolua Bay gets some of the big waves that make Maui famous, the waves that surfers love also bring nutrient dense water into the reef keeping it healthy. In the summer months, and on special winter occasions, Honolua Bay is a must. The coral formations are exceptional, you’re bound to see some large turtles, and mantas are even spotted in certain seasons.
House Reef - DiveBase
Malta
DiveBase House Reef is our starting point for our adventures. Perfect for PADI Discover Scuba Diving Experiences here divers to be could move their first steps underwater. House of many octopus, cuttlefish, breams, starfishes, flying gurnard, morey eel and many other; this site is our favorite spot for Night Dives.