A southern right whale calf has been sighted for the first time in Victorian waters this season.
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The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning confirmed sightings by locals at the Wade Street lookout in Portland.
Researchers from DELWP's southern right whale program expect the calf and its mother to stay in the south-west coast until October. Then, the calf should be strong enough to migrate to feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean.
DELWP natural environment programs officer Mandy Watson says some locals may still catch a glimpse of the whale.
"The unidentified female and her calf were last seen on Saturday heading east, which is a good sign that they are likely to remain in the local area," Ms Watson said.
"In recent years, there have been a number of sightings of cow-calf pairs near Portland, some staying for several weeks, and we're hopeful this is a sign that the population may be recovering in this area."
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Southern right whales are endangered according to the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Threatened Species list and must be left undisturbed while nursing their young.
An exclusion zone has already been installed at Logan's Beach, Warrnambool, until October 31 in order to stop vessels from disrupting the whales.
Elsewhere, high-powered vessels including jets and boats must remain at least 300 metres away from whales at all times.
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Jessica Greenan
Journalist at The Warrnambool Standard covering both Moyne Shire and Corangamite Shire Council. Sometimes court. Special interest in all things environment.
Journalist at The Warrnambool Standard covering both Moyne Shire and Corangamite Shire Council. Sometimes court. Special interest in all things environment.
