C.E Reading

1. What is so special about Migaloo?
2. Cite a few facts from the article that tell you how precious Migaloo is to the people of Australia.
3. Why is Migaloo known as a 'hypo-pigmented' humpback? is he the only one?

Answers:

1. The Migaloo (White Fella) humpback whale was the first white whale to be documented. So this made it become a "special interest whale" in the area which then made boats and jet skis keep at least 500m away from the whale and planes 2km. If anyone breaching these rules would be charged with a fine of $12,500 AUD.

2. The Migaloo is so precious to australians becuase they were the first white whale to be documented. They also kind of follow the same migration path down the east coast of Australia. He also has a aboriginal name. Scientists think that Migaloo's have a skin condition called albinism, but the scientists haven't yet suppled evidence that the whales do have the skin condition. Also the whale can live up to 80 years of age.

3. People call the Migaloo the "hyper-pigmented" humpback because of the rare skin condition called albinism that scientists think Migaloo's have. A.W.W.R.C (Australia White Whale Research Center) think that Migaloo's are NOT the only humpback whale with the skin condition that scientists think Migaloo's have.

Critical Thinking Challenge

Do you think Migaloo's special color helps or hurts him from human predators? Why

Answer: I think it would help him keep away human predators becuase humans know that if they catch one of these whales they would know that alot of people would try to send the catcher to court.