Whales on Australia’s ‘humpback highway’ are at growing risk of injury from boat and propellor strikes
News Source
•Sat, 03 Oct 2026 19:00:06 GMT
📰 What Happened
New photos show humpback whales with deep cuts and damaged tails along Australia's east coast. The injuries come from boat and propeller strikes.
One image taken last month in Hervey Bay, Queensland shows fresh cuts on a whale calf. Experts say the problem is growing as the whale population booms. The inquest is examining the actions of several officers that night.
🔍 The Backstory
Australia banned whaling 60 years ago, and humpback numbers have bounced back strongly. Every year, thousands travel up the coast on what is called the humpback highway.
More boats and more whales mean more collisions. Whale-watching has also grown. Experts say whales often cannot get out of the way in time.
🎯 Why It Matters
This shows how protecting wildlife and busy coastlines can clash. Safer boating rules could spare many whales from painful injuries.
New photos show humpback whales with deep cuts and damaged tails along Australia's east coast. The injuries come from boat and propeller strikes.
One image taken last month in Hervey Bay, Queensland shows fresh cuts on a whale calf. Experts say the problem is growing as the whale population booms. The inquest is examining the actions of several officers that night.
Australia banned whaling 60 years ago, and humpback numbers have bounced back strongly. Every year, thousands travel up the coast on what is called the humpback highway.
More boats and more whales mean more collisions. Whale-watching has also grown. Experts say whales often cannot get out of the way in time.
This shows how protecting wildlife and busy coastlines can clash. Safer boating rules could spare many whales from painful injuries.