First whales sighted off Central Coast

The first of migrating humpback whales are being sighted off the Central Coast.

Marine Mammal Research Central Coast spokesperson Ronny Ling said these early whales start appearing around this time of year and will become more in numbers as we advance through May.

The peak of the migration will be between late June and early July.

These magnificent animals start leaving Antarctic waters in February, travelling more than 5,000km to the warmer waters off Queensland, in the Coral Sea, moving north to mate or give birth.

A humpback calf weighs more than one tonne and is about 3-4m in length at birth.

On the way south, they must suckle very nutritious and fatty milk from their mother, to develop their blubber layers.

They need this insulation to be able to withstand the icy Antarctic waters when they are in their Summer feeding grounds.

These whales are often seen heading south close to shore from September to November.

Great places to view this amazing spectacle of nature include Captain Cook lookout at Copacabana, The Skillion at Terrigal, Wyrrabalong Lookout at Forresters Beach, Crackneck Lookout at Bateau Bay, Soldiers Beach at Norah Head and Wybung Head at Munmorah Conservation Area.

Ling said for those who crave more adventure, Terrigal Ocean Tours operate whale watching tours from Terrigal Haven.

“This is a great way to observe whale behaviour and have a memorable whale experience,” he said.

They start their whale tours on May 4.

During this time other species of marine mammals are often encountered including Minke whales, Brydes whales, dolphins, and seals.

“Late June is when we may be lucky and see a Southern Right Whale or two,” Ling said.

“Blue whales and Orcas have also been sighted in the past but are not very common.

“If you see a whale, dolphin or seal that appears in distress or is needing help, please call Marine Wildlife Central Coast on 0478 439 965 as soon as possible.”