Ongoing sightings of whales migrating north have been reported this season to the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) hotline.
The whales migrate north through Tasmanian waters from about May each year as they travel to their calving grounds, before returning to southern feeding grounds from mid-August to November.
Dr Sheryl Hamilton from the Marine Conservation Program (MCP) said there have been several sightings for both southern right whales and humpback whales so far this season.
“This year’s season started at the beginning of June and there has been a steady increase in sightings, with several reports recorded last week,” Dr Hamilton said.
“In Tasmanian waters we are lucky enough to have a huge diversity of whale species, including southern right whales, which are one of Tasmania’s rarest and largest mammals, with adults weighing up to 80 tonnes.
“Whales are fascinating creatures to watch and can be a frequent sight as they travel close to the coast during their annual migration.”
Dr Hamilton said the migration season is a timely reminder for members of the public to abide by whale watching guidelines and report whale sightings to the whale hotline.
“It is so important that safety comes first when observing these mammals. This is vital for both the safety of members of the public but also the welfare of the whale,” she said.
“If a whale approaches a vessel or swimmer, the advice is to slow down gradually and move away. It is critical that people do not follow behind, wait in front, or try to touch or feed whales as this can disrupt their natural behaviours and migration.
“Swimmers and divers are advised to keep a safe distance from whales and should not approach closer than 30m. Vessel operators should stay at least 100m from whales.”
The Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching apply to commercial operators, as well as members of the public. The rules also apply to aircraft, including drones.
For more information on the whale watching guidelines visit the DPIPWE website: www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/wd-viewing
Members of the public are encouraged to report whale sightings and injured or entangled marine mammals to the whale hotline (0427 WHALES).
Many locations on Tasmania’s east coast are ideal whale watching spots.
