Indicative distribution
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas.
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click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Megaptera novaeangliae
Gazetted date:
25 Nov 2022
Profile last updated:
31 Mar 2023
Description
Large marine mammal that can grow to 16 m in length. They have a stocky body with a broad rounded head, a small dorsal fin and extremely long flippers, which can measure up to one -third of the animal's total length. There is a noticeable rounded projection near the tip of the lower jaw and a series of knobbly protuberances on the head, jaws and flippers. The back and sides of the body are black as is the uderside, though it is more usual for the belly to have some white on it. The flippers and underside in some of the tail-flukes are usually mostly white. Humpback whales are able to mke spectacular leaps clear of water and also sometimes swim on their sides with one long flipper held out of the water.
Distribution
Oceanic and coastal waters worldwide.
Habitat and ecology
- The population of Australia's east coast migrates from summer cold-water feeding grounds in Subantarctic waters to warm-water winter breeding grounds in the central Great Barrier Reef.
- They are regularly observed in NSW waters in June and July, on northward migration and October and November, on southward migration.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Collision with boats and other marine traffic.
- Accidental entanglement in nets, traps, longline and other fishing gear.
- Marine debris, particularly plastic, which can cause suffocation, abrasion, infection or blockages in the Whale's system when swallowed.
Recovery strategies
A Saving Our Species conservation project is currently being developed for this species and will be available soon. For information on how you can contribute to this species' recovery, see the Activities to assist this species section below.
Activities to assist this species
- Boats should not approach within 300 m of any whale. 400 m if in a jet ski.
- Boats should avoid cutting in front of travelling whales.
- Swimmers should not approach within 30 m of any whale.
- Planes should not approach within 300 m of any whale. Helicopters 400 m.
- Avoid discarding any debris at sea.
- Protect coastal water quality.
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