Whale season at its peak as high numbers pass the NSW coastline

The 2013 whale watching season is right now in the midst of its peak with numbers greater than the past two years already being recorded at coastal vantage points in NSW National Parks.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSWPWS) Coordinator of Marine Fauna Programs Geoff Ross explains "as at 2pm yesterday afternoon (3rd July) , we've had 1,601 Humpback whales pass our counting stations at Cape Solander in the Kamay Botany Bay National Park south of Sydney.

"This number is higher than at the same time last year which saw 1,291 whales, and in 2011 when 1,240 Humpbacks were recorded, so we're well up on the last two years. 49 whales were recorded off Cape Solander to 2pm yesterday alone."

Ross said NSW National Parks are thrilled with these numbers which indicate a really great season. They have seen a few high count days with 75 animals recorded at Cape Solander on 25th June, and he says we're likely to continue to see high numbers for the next few weeks.

Ross adds "the whale watching season runs through until 30th November, but if people really want the best chance to see whales, and lots of them, they should head out into the coastal national parks from now and over the coming weeks.

"There are many scenic whale watching locations in our parks, and especially the headlands at places like North and South Head in Sydney, for a great chance to see these amazing mammals."

During the season, visitors are also encouraged to get involved by sharing their whale sightings on Twitter, Facebook, or by sharing via the Wild About Whales mobile app.

Ross also praised the work of the volunteer whale counters with 16 volunteers recording 670 hours in whale observations so far.

Volunteers can get involved by contacting the NSW National Parks Botany Bay Office on 02 9585 2000 or via www.wildaboutwhales.com.au