Humpbacks seen off the coast
The first of the migrating humpback whales have been seen in the Kimberley, about six weeks before they were expected.
One local said he saw five whales off the coast at Coconut Well more than two weeks ago, and another two whales on Sunday, April 10.
Annabelle Sandes of Kimberley Whale Watching said the arrival was about six weeks ahead of when the whales had been expected.
“Last year they were seen arriving on May 31, and the year before it was May 24,” she said.
“The local who saw them recently suggested the water was a bit cooler now. No one really knows what triggers the whales coming up, although it probably has something to do with temperature and the availability of food.”
About 22,000 humpback whales migrate from the freezing waters of the Antarctic to the Kimberley every year, towards calving grounds from south of Broome to north of Camden Sound.
Ms Sandes said the annual whale festival would be held on the first weekend in September, when there should be plenty of whales around, with calves.
Ms Sandes and Richard Costin plan to lead two research trip along the coast to Camden Sound, Augustus Island, Adele Island and the Lacepede Island.
For more information or to post pictures and report sightings to the Kimberley Whale Watching website, visit www.kimberleywhales.com.au.
