Tasmanians can look forward to seeing more whale activity during the next few months as southern right whales and humpback whales return to their Antarctic feeding grounds.
Whales have begun their annual southerly migration to spend the summer months foraging in Antarctic waters. Among them are many females with young calves.
Sightings of whale activity around the Tasmanian coastline should be reported to the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment whale hotline 0427 WHALES.
Public reports and photographs of whales are an important part of ongoing efforts to monitor the population trends of these threatened species. They add to knowledge about how whales use Tasmanian waters so that we may better manage and protect them.
Seeing whales in their natural environment
is a magnificent experience, but it is important that boat operators, swimmers
and divers to observe national whale watching guidelines.
The guidelines are important for public safety but they are also to ensure that the whales do not feel threatened by humans.
Boats moving at slow speed (less than 5 knots) and with no wake should maintain a distance of at least 100 metres from a whale. Vessels under steam should not approach any closer than 300 metres. Boats should not approach from either the front or the rear of the animal and withdraw immediately if the whale is disturbed.
For more information about whale viewing guidelines, visit www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au
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