Migaloo is the world's only all-white humpback whale
Celebrity whale Migaloo, a white humpback whale, has reappeared off the eastern coast of Australia.
Migaloo, which means “white fella” in one of the Queensland Aboriginal dialects, is the only all-white humpback ever documented.
Since he was spotted back in 1991 he has become hugely popular among whale fanatics and has generated quite a following.
As well as two dedicated websites, the humpback also inspired environmental activists to launch Operation Migaloo, an anti-whale hunting campaign by which concluded in March 2008.
However, officials have warned Migaloo’s fans to steer clear of the whale, who has been classified as a “special-interest whale”.
Queensland authorities have enforced a 547 yard (500m) exclusion zone for boats, jetskis and aircraft around Migaloo, which will be enforced by a maximum fine of £8,000.
State environment minister Kate Jones said, “The whale-watching regulations are there to protect the whales, but also to protect people from these huge, unpredictable mammals.
“Adult humpbacks can weigh more than a fully-loaded semi-trailer so you need to stay out of their way.”
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