Whale sightings have been recorded at Norah Head in recent weeks as the mammals head north in their annual migration to warmer climes.
Central Coast Dolphin Project says that it is estimated that this year, around 40, 000 humpback whales will migrate north to the warm waters of the Coral Sea to mate, calve and nurture their newborns.
“The northern migration starts around the end of January in the freezing waters in Antarctica, when whales start to travel north to warmer waters, covering around 5,000kms over three months,” spokesperson, Ronny Ling, said.
“Some locals have already started getting a glimpse of passing leviathans as they migrate past the Central Coast, with a few sightings coming in from Copacabana, Terrigal and Norah Head over the past fortnight.
“This time of year it is also quite common to see passing pods of dolphins, other species of whales (including minke whales, false killer whales and orcas) and of course fur seals surveying and hauling out on our coastline.
“The Central Coast has some fantastic vantage points to look for marine mammals, including Cromarty Hill Lookout (Forresters Beach), Crackneck Lookout (Bateau Bay), Soldiers Beach (Norah Head) and Wybung Head (Munmorah Conservation Area).”
Early morning is the best time to go whale watching as the rising sun silhouettes the whale blows and before the wind increases.
Central Coast Dolphin Project monitors marine mammal movements on the Coast as part of its ongoing research.
If you see a whale, dolphin or seal please text your sighting through to 0490 401 969 or email centralcoastdolphins@gmail.com
Source:
Media release, Apr 21
Central Coast Dolphin Project