Tasmanian East Coast whale migration kicks off as reports rise

The whale migration has long been a time of interest for avid whale watchers and lucky casual observers caught up in a whirlwind of whale excitement.

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A whole host of whale species migrate down the mainland Australian coast towards Tasmania and along Tasmania's East Coast and before returning to prosperous southern feeding grounds between August and November.

Marine Conservation Program spokesperson Dr Sheryl Hamilton said already this season there had been a number of sightings of southern right and humpback whales.

"This year's season started at the beginning of June and there has been a steady increase in sightings, with several reports recorded last week," she said.

"In Tasmanian waters we are lucky enough to have a huge diversity of whale species, including southern right whales."

With whales returning to publicly accessible Tasmanian waters, Dr Hamilton said it was important to report whale sightings and follow whale watching guidelines.

Dr Hamilton said guidelines were in place to protect both the public and whales.

"If a whale approaches a vessel or swimmer, the advice is to slow down gradually and move away. It is critical that people do not follow behind, wait in front, or try to touch or feed whales as this can disrupt their natural behaviours and migration," she said.

"Swimmers and divers are advised to keep a safe distance from whales and should not approach closer than 30m. Vessel operators should stay at least 100m from whales."

Members of the public are encouraged to report whale sightings to 0427 WHALES.

More information on the whale watching guidelines can be found at dpipwe.tas.gov.au/wd-viewing.

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