Introduction: Queensland’s Role in Humpback Whale Migration
A recent study has revealed how migrating humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) utilize two critical stopover sites along the Queensland coast—Hervey Bay and Moreton Bay—during their southward journey. The research, led by Dr. Raphael Mayaud from Griffith University, uncovered distinct behavioral patterns between the two locations, providing valuable insights into whale migration, marine conservation, and habitat use.
Hervey Bay vs. Moreton Bay: Two Different Stops for Humpbacks
Both Hervey Bay and Moreton Bay serve as important resting areas for migrating humpback whales. However, they offer very different experiences for the marine giants:
- Hervey Bay: Acts like a social playground for a diverse group of whales, including juveniles and adults. Social interactions and curious behaviors were frequently observed here.
- Moreton Bay: Functions as a quiet resting stop, primarily used by mother-calf pairs during migration.
According to the study published in PLOS One, these findings highlight the functional differences in how whales use these habitats.
Social Behavior Observed in Hervey Bay
The study noted a heterogeneous population in Hervey Bay, including young whales that displayed playful, interactive behaviors. These whales often approached research vessels, suggesting high levels of social activity.
“Hervey Bay felt like a playground, where the whales were socially interacting with one another,” said Dr. Mayaud.
Moreton Bay: A Vital Resting Spot for Mother-Calf Groups
In contrast, Moreton Bay was dominated by calf-groups, indicating its primary use as a resting zone. Here, the whales were more reserved, focusing on recovery rather than socializing. This utilitarian role makes Moreton Bay a critical site for the survival and well-being of humpback whale calves during migration.
Importance of Understanding Whale Stopovers
Understanding how different sites are used during whale migration can help inform targeted marine conservation strategies. Dr. Mayaud emphasized the significance of identifying functional stopovers, as they offer a more comprehensive understanding of:
- Whale population dynamics
- Migratory connectivity
- Energy management in marine mammals
Conservation and Future Research
While Hervey Bay is a socially learned stopover where whales return annually, researchers are still investigating whether Moreton Bay is a facultative stopover, meaning whales use it based on immediate energy needs rather than tradition.
Further studies are necessary to confirm the long-term role of Moreton Bay in the broader East Australian humpback whale migratory network.
Study Citation
Mayaud, R., et al. (2025). Differences in the functional use of two migratory stopovers by humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). PLOS One. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321010
Final Thoughts
This research not only deepens our understanding of humpback whale migration along the Queensland coast, but also reinforces the need for localized protection efforts in both Hervey and Moreton bays. These unique habitats play crucial roles in the survival, reproduction, and well-being of these magnificent marine mammals.