A possible sighting of Migaloo, Australia’s iconic white humpback whale, has reignited interest among marine scientists after an experienced whale watcher reported seeing a completely white whale off the New South Wales coast. While the sighting remains unconfirmed, experts say it is one of the most credible reports in years and deserves close attention.

The whale was reportedly observed at about 11:45am on Wednesday, around 2km offshore from Tacking Point Lighthouse near Port Macquarie. According to the observer, the animal was travelling alongside another humpback as thousands of whales continue their annual migration along Australia’s east coast.

The report comes at a significant time. Migaloo has not been officially confirmed in Australian waters since 2020, although credible sightings of a white whale emerged near New Zealand during 2025. The lengthy absence even prompted speculation among some experts that the famous whale may no longer be alive.

Why this Migaloo report stands out

The sighting was made by veteran whale watcher Leigh Mansfield, who has encountered Migaloo eight times over the past three decades. Unlike many reports that last only a few seconds, Mansfield observed the whale for roughly 30 minutes through powerful binoculars.

He estimates there is a 90–95% chance the whale was Migaloo but has deliberately stopped short of calling it a confirmed sighting because no clear photograph was obtained.

According to Mansfield, the whale appeared entirely white above the water without the dark patches commonly seen on partially white humpbacks. He also described a distinctive green glow beneath the surface as the whale submerged, a feature he believes is characteristic of Migaloo.

His comments explain why scientists have not dismissed the report despite the lack of photographic evidence.

Why experts remain cautious

Marine scientist Dr Vanessa Pirotta from Macquarie University says the report deserves serious attention because it came from one of Australia’s most experienced whale observers. At the same time, she stresses that scientific confirmation requires more than eyewitness testimony.

Australia occasionally records sightings of other unusually pale humpback whales, including individuals believed to have originated from breeding grounds near Tonga. In addition, ordinary humpbacks can briefly appear white when they breach or expose their pale undersides.

Recent drone footage captured near Lake Cathie, for example, was later confirmed to show another light-coloured humpback rather than Migaloo. Separate video recorded from the shoreline near Port Macquarie was too distant for experts to verify the whale’s identity.

Because of those similarities, researchers continue to rely on high-quality photographs or video showing body markings, dorsal fin shape and overall colour before making an official identification.

Why Migaloo remains important to science

First identified near Byron Bay in 1991, Migaloo became one of the world’s best-known humpback whales because of his rare white colouring. That distinctive appearance has made him easier to monitor than most whales, providing researchers with valuable information about migration routes, seasonal movements and survival over time.

Scientists also say Migaloo has helped increase public awareness of humpback whale conservation. Although humpback populations have recovered significantly since commercial whaling ended, they continue to face modern threats including vessel strikes, fishing gear entanglement, underwater noise and climate change.

These pressures highlight why every reliable sighting contributes to a broader understanding of Australia’s recovering whale population.

Public interest can become a conservation challenge

Dr Pirotta says the excitement surrounding Migaloo also creates responsibility. Rare animals often attract boats, drones and photographers, increasing the risk of disturbance during migration.

For that reason, white whales are protected under Australian regulations as special-interest whales. Boats and other watercraft must remain at least 500 metres away, giving the animal space to travel without unnecessary interference.

Scientists say responsible reporting is just as important as capturing photographs. Anyone who believes they have seen a white whale is encouraged to report the sighting while maintaining the legally required distance.

Marine wildlife can influence coastal safety in unexpected ways. A recent whale carcass that prompted shark warnings at Bells Beach showed how whale-related events can quickly affect both conservation efforts and public access to Australia’s coastline.

If the whale continues travelling north, observers along the NSW and Queensland coastline may have another opportunity to capture clearer images. A confirmed photograph would allow researchers to compare body characteristics with existing records and determine whether Australia’s most famous white whale has indeed returned.

Anyone who believes they have spotted a white whale is encouraged to contact ORRCA Australia or email migaloo@migaloo.com.au with photographs or video where possible.

Official information on whale conservation, protected species and Australia’s whale protection measures is available from the Australian Government’s Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises page.

For now, the Port Macquarie report remains an unconfirmed but highly credible sighting. Whether it proves to be Migaloo or another rare white humpback, it has already highlighted both the value of experienced citizen scientists and the importance of protecting Australia’s migrating whales.

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