Government: Stop harassing whales 'super groups' off the West Coast

The whales were first spotted last month.

'Super-groups' are defined as groups of 20 or more tightly spaced individual humpback whales, swimming within five body lengths of each other.

In its reaction, the Department is urging all vessel masters, skippers, tour boat operators, wildlife photographers/videographers and other interested parties, such as sunset cruise operators, to exercise the necessary restrained and caution.

“The maritime industry, academia, permitted Boat Base Whale Watching (BBWW) operators, permitted photographers/videographers, tourists and South  Africans at large are urged to enjoy the spectacle in the most responsible way so that we can enjoy their presence in our waters for years to come,” reads the statement.

The Department has also taken the opportunity to remind the public of specific legislation as part of the protection of whales in South Africa.

“The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act: Threatened or Protected Marine Species Regulations is clear that, except under a permit specifically allowing one to approach closer, we all need to keep 300 meters away from any whale. Even under these permitted circumstances, it is still required that permit holders prioritise safety of humans and welfare of animals. There is a high possibility that whales can abandon an area if disturbed too much,” warns the department.

According to the Department, officials are still collection more evidence to estimate the exact number of whales off the coast.

“The largest group was between 150 and 200 animals. Recent reports from private aerial photographers are suggesting that more whales may have since joined the group.”

The groups spent a fair amount of time off St Helena Bay, while there have also been reports of sightings off Saldanha Bay.

These whales are expected to eventually make their way south towards Table Bay, another vessel hotspot.