Möller, L.M. & Wouters, C.E. (2025) Project 3.15 – Informing southern right whale management through continued monitoring, determination of aggregation areas and development of approaches to increase data flow efficiencies and utility: Movements, connectivity, and population identity of southern right whales at the boundary of the eastern and western populations. Report to the National Environmental Science Program.
Overview
Publication type: Technical report.
Primary audience/ research users: Policy makers, managers, researchers.
Key findings: The study used satellite tags to track four southern right whales from Encounter Bay, South Australia, revealing movements exceeding 11,000 km over up to 198 days. Whales travelled mainly west and southwest, displaying transit, intermediate, and area-restricted search behaviours. Mothers spent extended time in known reproductive areas in South and Western Australia and in previously undocumented nursery areas along the South Australian coast. Over 19,700 dive events showed mothers dived shallower and spent more time at the surface than unaccompanied adults. Tracks overlapped with several marine industries, highlighting potential risk areas. Movement patterns suggest tagged whales likely belong to the western population. The project also supported Ngarrindjeri-led cultural engagement during Winter Whale Fest.
Impact/Implications: The study provides critical new information on southern right whale movements, habitat use, and exposure to human activities in southern Australia. By identifying emerging nursery areas and high-risk regions, the findings support improved management and mitigation of anthropogenic threats, while contributing to national recovery objectives and demonstrating the value of collaborative science and Indigenous engagement.
