Southern Right whale by jix3

Southern Right whale

Southern Right Whale

What started out as a report of a stranded whale with a calf still in the shallows, turned out to be a single Southern Right Whale!  He made his way from beach to beach until dusk when we couldn't watch him anymore!  It is so amazing how close these whales come in, and we were lucky enough to hear this one *trumpet*....  enjoy the slideshow!

Southern Right Whale - Kiama - Sunday 11th July 2010

ORRCA Whale Census Day

Wendy, Vicki and keen members of the public counting Humpback whales from the Ruined Lighthouse Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay.

Although it was a very, very cold day, we had over 400 guests visit the park. 

We were also lucky to have the privilege of spending the day with Julie, Marley and other members from Booderee National Park.  Not only do they serve tea, coffee, hot milo and Barry's wonderful damper, but they provide an informal cultural talk on indigenous people and their connection with whales.

Trust me when I say that you have never experienced damper until you try Barry's!

Three Humpback whales.

Each animal's dorsal is unique.

This particular whale will be easily identified by, not only his unique dorsal fin, but also the large white marking on his flank.

If you look closely, this whale has what appears to be rake marks (from an Orca perhaps) or maybe marks from a propeller injury?  Can you spot the second whale?

Thank goodness for a 400mm lens!  The top right hand corner of this pic is where we would initially see the first blow or blows! 

If you are an avid bird watcher, you can see numerous species, and we are always lucky to see a number of sea eagles!