Migaloo is a white humpback whale. Migaloo was the first white humpback whale to ever be documented. Being un able to confirm this, they instead refer to him as a 'hyper pigmented' humpback. Migaloo was instantly given the title of 'A special interest whale'. This title is so special, people are fined with $12,500AUD if they break a 500 meter distance. Airplanes have to be at least 2000 metres away from Migaloo. Migaloo was the first white whale to ever be documented on. Migaloo is also the first white whale in general to ever be seen. Migaloo was even given an Aboriginal name. Migaloo translates to 'White Fella' in Aborigines.
Cite a few facts from the article that tell you how precious Migaloo is to the people of Australia.
"On June 19th, a group of animal lovers on a whale watching cruise off the coast of Sydney, were treated to a rare sight - a pod of animals that included Migaloo, the world's first documented white humpback whale."
"Even though fans keep their eyes peeled for this white whale every year, they are not always successful in spotting the elusive mammal."
"Over the years, Migaloo's fans have also built several websites dedicated to his every move and even set up an active Facebook page and Twitter account in his honour."
"Oskar Peterson from Australia's White Whale Research Center speculates that he may be the same white whale the center received notification of, in 1998. If true, it would mean that Migaloo is 26-years-old. Given that the mammals can live up to 80 years, the stunning white humpback whale will continue to delight his fans for many years."
"Not surprisingly, he became an instant local darling and was immediately elevated to the status of 'special interest whale'."
Why is Migaloo known as a 'hypo-pigmented' humpback. Is he the only one?
Migaloo is known as a 'hypo-pigmented' humpback due to his white skin. Scientists believe that his skin condition is albinism but have yet to find proof to support their prediction.
Migaloo is not the only white humpback whale. In September 2011, Alan Fewings and his family reported seeing a white calf amongst a pod of migrating whales. Experts believe that Migaloo and this white calf may be related. But because no one has seen 'Migaloo Junior' since his spotting, they have not been able to confirm this belief.
Critical Thinking :
Do you think Migaloo's special colour helps or hurts him from human predators? Why.
I think that it helps him, but at the same time might hurt him.
As said in this article, Migaloo is important as important can come. But, this can come at a price.
Just like how rhino horns are valuable, maybe he is too.
A danger to him would be if he were to be caught, killed and sold.
An advantage to his popularity would be how protective how fans are.
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