White humpback that washed up on an Australian beach is NOT Migaloo after famous albino whale was feared dead
Scientists have confirmed that the white humpback whale that washed up on a beach in Victoria, Australia is not Migaloo, the beloved albino whale. The carcass, measuring 10 meters in length, was discovered on Big Beach in Mallacoota, East Gippsland, on Saturday. Contrary to earlier fears, researchers determined that the whale is a sub-adult female, while Migaloo is a male.
Authorities worked diligently to identify the carcass, as Migaloo has not been sighted in Australian waters for several years due to the loss of his tracking chip. Genetic material extracted from the beached whale’s remains led scientists from the Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning to confidently conclude that it is a female sub-adult. Images of the carcass showed barnacles on the throat and patches of darkened skin, which experts analyzed to determine the whale’s original coloration.
Although the discovery of the dead albino whale saddened many, it brought relief to those who cherish Migaloo’s presence. The white humpback found in Mallacoota is estimated to be about 10 meters in length, while Migaloo measures approximately 15 meters. Migaloo, first sighted off Byron Bay in 1991, has captivated researchers and the public alike with his unique coloring.
The beach in Mallacoota, located on the “humpback highway,” frequently witnesses whales washing up, making it a not uncommon occurrence. Kate Robb, executive director of the Marine Mammal Foundation, expressed her confidence that the beached carcass was not that of Migaloo, stating that it was still saddening to see another whale in such a state.
Currently, around 40,000 marine mammals are migrating from the colder waters of Antarctica to the warmer waters along Australia’s east coast for breeding purposes. This migration coincides with the presence of humpback whales in the Mallacoota area.
Peter Coles, a local resident, stumbled upon the dead whale while walking along Big Beach and shared photographs on the community’s Facebook page. The deceased whale appeared like a sculpture, with a length of approximately 10 meters.
Migaloo, believed to have been born in 1986, is considered the best-known humpback on Australia’s east coast and holds a special place in the hearts of many. As Migaloo turns 33 this year, special legislation has been enacted to protect him from harassment. Water vehicles are prohibited from operating within 500 meters of Migaloo, and aircraft must maintain their distance as well.
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