The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is reminding people to please keep their distances from a pair of visiting southern right whales, sighted off Berrara Cove.
NPWS Area Manager Michael Phelan said the mother and calf were earlier this week reported off Bendalong Point, sighted at Conjola and now seem to be making their way slowly south.
"We are lucky to see these endangered species off our beaches, but the rarity of southern right whales means that we have to be extra cautious and not disturb the pair," Mr Phelan said.
"It's natural to be curious and want to head out and catch a glimpse of the whales, but we are reminding people to please stick to the safe approach distances.
"If you're swimming, diving or just enjoying the water and you spot a whale, then you must stay at least 30 metres from the whale in any direction.
"You must also not wait in front of the whale, or approach from behind.
"If you're on a boat, surfboard, surf ski or kayak, then you need to maintain a distance of at least 100 metres from the whale and 300 metres if a calf is present.
"There are thought to be only 300 south eastern southern right whales left, and possibly only 70 breeding females.
"This makes the sighting of a mother and calf all the more special as the little one is potentially the next generation for this population.
"Southern right whales don't behave the same as humpbacks, as they are generally very slow swimming and linger close to shore.
"Yet they also have the potential for significant aggressive reactions when protecting a calf or if they feel harassed.
"Approach distances also apply to drone operators.
"Drones must say at least 100 metres away from a whale, in all directions, Mr Phelan said.
Fines of up to $1320 apply to individuals who breach these regulations.
Recently the NSW Government launched the Right Whale ID' project using trained and authorised drone plots to identify individuals, track locations and monitor health of southern right whales.
Visit the NPWS website
