Species group report card
– cetaceans
Supporting the marine bioregional plan
for the North-west Marine Region
prepared under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
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© Commonwealth of Australia 2012
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CONTENTS
Species group report card – cetaceans.......................................................................................
1. Cetaceans of the North-west Marine Region ...............................................................................
2. Vulnerabilities and pressures .......................................................................................................
3. Relevant protection measures......................................................................................................
References .......................................................................................................................................
Attachment 1: Cetacean species occurring in the North-west Marine Region ......................
SPECIES GROUP REPORT CARD –
CETACEANS
Supporting the marine bioregional plan for the North-west Marine Region prepared under the Environment Protection
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
Report cards
The primary objective of the report cards is to provide accessible information on the conservation
values found in Commonwealth marine regions. This information is maintained by the Department of
Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities and is available online through the
department’s website (www.environment.gov.au). A glossary of terms relevant to marine
bioregional planning is located at www.environment.gov.au/marineplans.
Reflecting the categories of conservation values, there are three types of report cards:
 species group report cards
 marine environment report cards
 heritage places report cards.
While the focus of these report cards is the Commonwealth marine environment, in some instances
pressures and ecological processes occurring in state waters are referred to where there is
connectivity between pressures and ecological processes in state and Commonwealth waters.
Species group report cards
Species group report cards are prepared for large taxonomic groups that include species identified as
conservation values in a region; that is, species that are listed under Part 13 of the Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and live in the Commonwealth marine
area for all or part of their lifecycle. All listed threatened, migratory and marine species and all
cetaceans occurring in Commonwealth waters are protected under the EPBC Act and are identified in
the relevant marine bioregional plans as conservation values.
Species group report cards focus on species for which the region is important from a conservation
perspective; for example, species of which a significant proportion of the population or an important life
stage occurs in the region’s waters.
For these species, the report cards:
 outline the conservation status of the species and the current state of knowledge about its ecology
in the region
 define biologically important areas; that is, areas where aggregations of individuals of a species
display biologically important behaviours
 assess the level of concern in relation to different pressures.
1. Cetaceans of the North-west Marine Region
Forty-five species of cetacean occur in Australian waters. Of these, 27 species occur
regularly in the waters of the North-west Marine Region, including 16 species of whale
and at least 11 species of dolphin. A further 9 species of cetacean occur infrequently in the region (Attachment 1).
Cetaceans found in the North-west Marine Region include truly pelagic species such as Antarctic minke whales;
spinner and striped dolphins that spend most of their time in the Commonwealth waters of the region; and species
such as Indo-Pacific humpback and Indo-Pacific humpback and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins that are found
predominantly in shallow coastal waters . Sperm whales, false killer whales and short-finned pilot whales may be
found around areas of upwelling and canyons on the continental shelf. Family pods of female and juvenile sperm
whales are likely to reside in the warm tropical waters of the region throughout the year, while male sperm whales
migrate through the region on their southward journey to feed in the waters of the Antarctic. While specific areas for
sperm whales have not been identified in the region, historical whaling records show they were commonly
encountered offshore in the southern parts of the region (Townsend 1935; WCS 2006). The Australian snubfin dolphin
(formerly known in Australian waters as the Irrawaddy dolphin) is known to occur in rivers, tidal creek mouths and
estuarine embayments associated with mangrove systems in the north-west. This species is newly described and may
be endemic to Australian waters (Beasley et al. 2005).
The North-west Marine Region is thought to be an important migratory pathway between feeding grounds in the
Southern Ocean and breeding grounds in tropical waters for several cetacean species. Fin whales, dwarf and Antarctic
minke whales may travel through the region on their way to breeding grounds, which are thought to be in deep oceanic
waters around the Indonesian archipelago, but have yet to be discovered. Pygmy blue whales are known to migrate
through the region between warm water (low-latitude) breeding grounds and cold water (high-latitude) feeding grounds.
The migratory pathway of pygmy blue whales along the Western Australian coast is now reasonably well understood
(McCauley and Jenner 2010). On their northern migration pygmy blue whales come into the Perth Canyon in the period
January to May, and then move up the coast passing Exmouth in the period April through to August before continuing
north, with animals known to frequent Indonesian waters. Their southern migration down the Western Australian coast is
from October to late December. They tend to pass along the shelf edge at depths of 500m out to 1000 m, moving faster
on the southern migration and coming in close to the coast in the Exmouth – Montebello Islands area. (McCauley and
Jenner 2010).
The North-west Marine Region is particularly important for the Western Australian population of humpback whales
(Megaptera novaeangliae), whose known breeding and calving grounds are between Broome and the northern end of
Camden Sound (DEH 2005; Jenner et al. 2001).
Humpbacks are thought not to feed while visiting the region; however, other baleen whales may feed on tropical krill
species, such as Pseudeuphausia latifrons, while in the region. Toothed whales and dolphins are significant predators of
cephalopods (squid, octopus and cuttlefish), fish and crustaceans (krill, amphipods and copepods), with some species
diving to take deepwater prey at depths of more than 1500 metres. Others move to feed offshore at night when deepliving organisms, usually schools of fish, migrate to the surface. Killer whales have been known to attack humpback
whales, particularly calves, and may be attracted to the region during the humpback breeding migration, although
records of killer whale attacks on humpbacks are rare (Flórez-González et al. 1994).
Mixed species feeding aggregations are known to occur in the region among bottlenose, Risso’s and rough-toothed
dolphins as well as melon-headed and pilot whales. Groups of spinner and spotted dolphins also commonly associate
with tuna and seabirds.
Of the cetaceans known to occur in the North-west Marine Region, this report card focuses on the species listed in
Table 1. These species were selected following consideration of their conservation status, distribution and population
structure within the region, life history characteristics and the potential for the populations in the region to be genetically
distinct from populations elsewhere.
Inshore dolphins
Dolphins regularly seen in the inshore waters adjacent to the North-west Marine Region include the Australian snubfin
dolphin (Orcaella heinsohni); the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis); two types of bottlenose dolphin, the
inshore form of the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and the Indo-Pacific or spotted bottlenose dolphin
(Tursiops aduncus); and spinner dolphins (Stenella spp.). Spinner dolphins are generally considered to be a pelagic
species and are discussed below. However, some small groups are found inshore, around islands and other sheltered
areas where they are known to rest or may also be resident (Allen et al. in press 2012; Norris & Dohl 1980, Norris et al.
1994). All three tropical inshore dolphin species (snubfin, Indo-Pacific humpback and Indo-Pacific bottlenose) can be
found together in association with mangrove systems in nearshore coastal waters adjacent to the region and within the
North-west Marine Region. The distribution patterns of each species vary, but all have, to some degree, distributions that
are localised and fragmented reflecting the scarcity of appropriate habitat and prey.
Although there is information on the typical depths used by inshore dolphin species for some areas of their Australian
range, this can vary with the coastal geography (Parra & Ross 2009). The north-west coast of Australia has a complex
geography that encompasses island archipelagos; huge tidal fluxes that create areas of high productivity far out to sea;
deep sea islands and reef systems. Thus, areas of key habitat for inshore dolphins can occur in and adjacent to the
region. There are limited peer-reviewed papers on the distribution and abundance of inshore dolphins in the North-west
Marine Region, but the area, and adjacent state waters, are thought to be important for these species, all of which breed,
feed and calve in the area, and are present in low to very low numbers.
Australian snubfin dolphin
Adjacent to the North-west Marine Region, Australian snubfin dolphins are found in nearshore state waters along the
coast from Cape Londonderry south to Roebuck Bay, with records of vagrants as far south as Exmouth Gulf. The
species has recently been recorded in the nearshore waters of Port Hedland, Montebello Islands, North-west Cape and
Exmouth Gulf (Allen et al. in press 2012). Roebuck Bay is the only known area where relatively large numbers of
Australian snubfins congregate. Australian snubfin dolphins are generally found in very low numbers within a fragmented
coastal distribution (Thiele 2005). In the Kimberley the species is typically found in shallow (less than 10 metres deep)
turbid water near rivers, tidal creeks and mangrove systems. The greatest densities occur where a complex of habitat
types form a rich prey environment; for example, where there is a mixture of rocky reef, seagrass, salt marsh, coral,
mudflat and mangrove habitats. The Australian snubfin is known to have resident groups that forage, feed, breed and
calve in Roebuck Bay, King Sound (south), Yampi Sound, Deception Bay, Prince Regent River, King George River/Cape
Londonderry and the Ord River/Cambridge Gulf. This species has also been recorded travelling in large groups (possibly
migrating) in Brunswick Bay and off Deception Bay and the Dampier Peninsula. There is strong evidence that some
animals/groups move between coastal sites possibly for seasonal socialising and feeding opportunities.
The Australian snubfin dolphin has been recorded in water depths of 15–20 metres and up to 10 kilometres from the
coast in Queensland (Corkeron et al. 1997; Parra et al. 2002) and up to a depth of 19 metres in Northern Territory waters
(Palmer 2010). This species is likely to occur where island archipelagos, reefs, extensive sandbanks and tidal fronts
occur in these depths along the north-west coast. Areas of the North-west Marine Region where Australian snubfin
dolphins are likely to migrate and feed (on the basis of sightings close to Commonwealth waters and where
Commonwealth waters occur close to known biologically important areas) include off the eastern and western sides of
Cambridge Gulf; to the north and north-west of Cape Londonderry and Cape Talbot; west of Augustus Island; west and
north-west of the Buccaneer Archipelago; and Cape Leveque to Broome.
Australian snubfin dolphins are reported to be opportunistic, generalist feeders preying on bottom-dwelling and pelagic
fish and cephalopods in coastal and estuarine waters, taking their prey from throughout the water column (Parra &
Jedensjö 2009). In the North-west Marine Region Australian snubfin dolphins are often observed feeding in association
with threadfin salmon. The blue threadfin (Eleutheronema tetradactylum) and the king threadfin (Polydactylus macrochir)
inhabit turbid, nearshore coastal waters and mangrove areas of the region (Blaber 2002; Pember et al. 2005). It is likely
that Australian snubfin dolphins consume prey similar to threadfin in habitats where they occur together. Australian
snubfin dolphins are also known to feed head down, tail up in turbid waters at depths of less than 1 metre in Roebuck
Bay where more than 180 taxa of benthic organisms are found on the rich mudflats that are also used by migratory
wader birds (Piersma et al. 2006; Thiele 2008). Roebuck Bay is a large embayment where a deepwater trough injects
cold, deep oceanic water into the shallower waters. Tidal creeks feed into the extensive, mangrove-lined mudflats along
the southern edge of the bay. Seagrass beds, rocky reefs, coral and sponge beds are all found within the bay, creating a
rich and diverse ecosystem (Rogers et al. 2003). Prey herding is common and spitting water is one of the herding
behaviours that this species uses. Australian snubfins socialise year round and breeding is thought to occur throughout
the year.
Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin
Throughout its range the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin is found primarily in continental shelf waters (less than
200 metres deep) near shore and in areas with rocky or coral reefs, sandy or soft sediments, or seagrass beds. Small
populations also occur in the inshore waters of some oceanic islands. Where it occurs in estuarine habitats, this species
tends to be in slightly deeper, clearer and more open water than the snubfin and humpback dolphins (Reeves & Brownell
2009). This species is generally considered coastal. For example, off South Africa it is found almost exclusively in water
less than 30 metres deep and in water temperatures of 20–30 oC, but there are occasional reports of Indo-Pacific
bottlenose dolphins moving across deep oceanic waters (Best 2007; Reeves & Brownell 2009).
Adjacent to the North-west Marine Region resident groups forage, feed, breed and calve in Roebuck Bay, the Maret
Islands and Yampi Sound. The species has also been recorded within the nearshore waters of Coral Bay, North West
Cape, Onslow, Dampier Archipelago, Port Hedland, Eco Beach and Cable Beach (Allen et al. in press 2012). In general
little is known about this species in the region, although resident bottlenose dolphin groups are known to occur at Browse
Island, Rowley Shoals and other island and reef complexes in offshore waters. These areas provide important habitat for
both the common and the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin. Although there are anecdotal reports that both Indo-Pacific
bottlenose and common bottlenose dolphins occur around these deepwater islands, they are yet to be confirmed as few
data are available (D Thiele, Australian National University, pers. comm., May 2011).
Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins eat benthic and reef-dwelling fish and cephalopods and some pelagic and epipelagic
species (Reeves & Brownell 2009). Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the waters of oceanic islands primarily
feed on epipelagic and mesopelagic fish, cephalopods and sometimes benthic crustaceans (Reeves & Brownell 2009).
Baird et al. (2008) found that coastal bottlenose dolphins typically feed on a diversity of benthic and schooling small fish.
They also speculated that Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins learn the location of spatially predictable food sources and
remain in a small home range in areas
where local productivity is high enough to support a number of individuals (Baird et al. 2008).
Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin
The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin is typically found in water less than 20 metres deep, but has been recorded in
water up to 40 metres deep. This species is generally found in association with river mouths, mangroves, tidal
channels and inshore reefs (Karczmarski et al. 2000; Parra et al. 2006). However, along the north-west coast IndoPacific humpback dolphins are found around steep cliffs and islands well away from these typical habitats. In the
North-west Marine Region the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin is generally resident in a relatively small area, with a
home range and consistent foraging patterns (D Thiele, Australian National University, pers. comm., May 2011). This
species can be found as far south as Exmouth Gulf, Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay (Hodgson 2007), but only in low
numbers, and has a widely scattered distribution. It is known to occur in the waters off the Buccaneer Archipelago and
from Cape Leveque to Broome. It has also been recorded in the nearshore waters of Coral Bay, North West Cape,
Onslow, Dampier Archipelago and Port Hedland (Allen et al. in press 2012). The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin is
known to have resident groups that forage, feed, breed and calve in the state waters of Roebuck Bay, Dampier
Peninsula, King Sound north, Talbot Bay, Anjo Peninsula, Vansittart Bay, Napier Broome Bay and Deception Bay.
Indo-Pacific humpbacks are known to prey on pipefish in some areas and have developed a range of unusual herding
and capture techniques.
Pelagic dolphins
Many species of pelagic dolphin are known to occur in the North-west Marine Region, including the common bottlenose
dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), Fraser’s dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei), Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus), rough-toothed
dolphin (Steno bredanensis), pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata), striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba)
and long-snouted spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris).
The wide continental shelf off the northern Kimberley coast ends abruptly at a convoluted shelf edge with complex
troughs and canyons. The combination of large tidal movements and this complex sea-floor habitat creates a dynamic
foraging habitat for cetaceans and very large schools form to take advantage of aggregations of prey at temporary fronts
and upwelling events. Currents and upwelling cause local increases in marine productivity in these areas. Many oceanic
dolphins are highly gregarious and occur in mixed schools or cetacean communities. For example, Fraser’s dolphins
have strong associations with melon-headed whales and often also associate with common bottlenose dolphins, spinner
dolphins (Stenella spp.), pilot whales and rough-toothed dolphins (Perrin et al. 1994b).
Common bottlenose dolphin
Bottlenose dolphins are a cosmopolitan species, found in tropical and temperate waters. There are inshore and offshore
forms (Hoelzel et al. 1998), both of which occur in the North-west Marine Region. Pelagic populations are known in some
areas, but most are found in nearshore areas with some offshore populations resident around oceanic islands (Wells &
Scott 1999, 2009). The inshore form frequents river mouths, bays, lagoons and other shallow coastal regions in water
depths of 0.5 to 20 metres. The offshore form apparently ranges more widely (Hammond et al. 2008a). The inshore and
offshore forms of this species have different diets. The inshore form feeds primarily on a variety of fish and invertebrates
from both the littoral and sublittoral zones, while the offshore form eats mesopelagic fish and oceanic squid (Reyes
1991). Diet varies widely with geographic location and associated habitat (Wells & Scott 1999, 2009). Common
bottlenose dolphins associate with many other cetacean species including pilot whales, white-sided dolphins, spotted
dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, false killer whales and humpback whales.
Fraser’s dolphin
Fraser’s dolphins are generally found in deep oceanic waters in association with upwelling and other productive
oceanic processes (Perrin et al. 1994b). They can also occur where islands abut deep water (Dolar et al. 2003; Weir
et al. 2008). In the North-west Marine Region this species has been recorded (RPS 2010) in the waters of the Browse
Basin over the shelf edge and slope where they have been sighted in mixed foraging schools with sperm whales, pilot
whales, false killer whales, common bottlenose dolphins and spinner dolphins. They feed on a wide range of fish,
squid and crustaceans from throughout the water column to depths of 600 metres (Dolar et al. 2003; Hammond et al.
2008b; Perrin et al. 1994b; Santos & Haimovici 1998).
Risso’s dolphin
Risso’s dolphin is widely but patchily distributed in deep oceanic and continental slope waters 400–1000 metres deep
and generally seaward of the continental slope across temperate and tropical regions (Baird 2009; Jefferson et al. 1993).
The species is often found at seamounts and escarpments with steep topography. Risso’s dolphin has been recorded off
the Kimberley coast in the North-west Marine Region. Most of the species’ prey is oceanic cephalopods. Risso’s dolphins
are known to associate with sperm whales, short-finned pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, striped
dolphins, spotted dolphins, false killer whales and pygmy killer whales (Kruse et al. 1999) and have been recorded in the
region (RPS 2010) in similar cetacean community groups. Baird et al. (2008) found high site fidelity among the species to
deep ocean areas where upwelling was predictable. Site fidelity can increase the risk of impacts from some pressures if
they occur in the home range of the group.
Rough-toothed dolphin
The rough-toothed dolphin is usually found in deep water well offshore and beyond the continental shelf, often around
the edges of oceanic reefs. Within the North-west Marine Region, rough-toothed dolphins have been recorded around
Barrow Island (Ross 2006). Fish and squid are its main prey. Rough-toothed dolphins are known to dive to at least
70 metres and remain submerged for up to 15 minutes (Jefferson 2009). Rough-toothed dolphins often associate with
bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales and occasionally with spinner and spotted dolphins. Rough-toothed dolphins have
been recorded in the North-west Marine Region in association with common bottlenose dolphins.
Stenella species (pantropical spotted dolphin , spinner dolphin and
striped dolphin)
The taxonomy of Stenella species is complex and not completely resolved so they are discussed here as one group due
to similarities in habitat, prey and associations. They occur in tropical and subtropical waters of the world (Jefferson et al.
2008) and their distribution is closely linked to oceanographic processes such as upwelling, currents and frontal zones.
All of the Stenella dolphins have slender bodies and relatively long beaks, are highly social and are extremely acrobatic.
Stenella can dive to depths of 200–300 metres and generally feeds on small squid, shrimp and fish in the mesopelagic
zone.
Little is known about the distribution of Stenella species in the North-west Marine Region, and although surveys have
been conducted in some key areas (for example, the Browse Basin), available data is limited. However, these dolphins
have been recorded at the shelf edge and shelf slope area of the Browse Basin in large, high energy, mixed schools in
association with tuna, seabirds and other pelagic cetaceans (RPS 2010; Woodside 2009). Small groups of Stenella
species have been observed resting in nearshore areas of the Kimberley coast on the lee side of bays and islands and
may be resident. The striped dolphin is abundant around Barrow Island. A form of spinner dolphin was recently identified
by Allen et al. (in press 2012) in the Cable Beach region, which is thought to be the dwarf spinner dolphin, subspecies
Stenella longirostris roseiventris. Currently this subspecies is only known from the Gulf of Thailand and the Arafura and
Timor seas (Perrin et al. 1999). If genetic analysis confirms this identification, it will be the south-western most record of
this subspecies (Allen et al. in press 2012).
Whales
Humpback whale
Humpback whales migrate north from their Antarctic feeding grounds around May each year, reaching the waters of the
North-west Marine Region in early June. Immature individuals and lactating females arrive first to the breeding and
calving grounds between Broome and north Camden Sound, followed by non-pregnant mature females and adult males.
Pregnant females arrive last. Breeding and calving takes place between August and September when the southern
migration starts. Females with calves are the last to leave the breeding grounds, stopping to rest in Exmouth Gulf, Shark
Bay and Geographe Bay. The Western Australian population of humpbacks (known as the Group IV population)
(Bannister et al. 1996) is genetically distinct from the eastern Australian population, with very little exchange between the
two, even in their Antarctic feeding grounds (Baker et al. 1993). The absolute abundance
of the Group IV population was estimated to be 28 830 individuals in 2008 (Hedley et al. 2011).
Feeding occurs primarily in summer in Antarctic waters south of about 55° S, with krill forming the major part of the diet
(DEWHA 2010). Some feeding has been observed in Australia’s coastal waters but this is thought to be primarily
opportunistic and forms only a small portion
of their nutritional requirements (Thiele et al. 2004).
Biologically important areas
Biologically important areas are areas that are particularly important for the conservation of protected species and where
aggregations of individuals display biologically important behaviour such as breeding, foraging, resting or migration. The
presence of the observed behaviour is assumed to indicate that the habitat required for the behaviour is also present.
Biologically important areas have been identified for some EPBC Act listed species found in the North-west Marine
Region, using expert scientific knowledge about species’ distribution, abundance and behaviour in the region. The
selection of species was informed by the availability of scientific information, the conservation status of listed species and
the importance of the region for the species. The range of species for which biologically important areas are identified will
continue to expand as reliable spatial and scientific information becomes available. Biologically important areas have
been identified for four species of cetacean in the North-west Marine Region: the humpback whale, Australian snubfin
dolphin, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin. Most of the biologically important areas
identified for cetacean species are located in state waters adjacent to the North-west Marine Region.Behaviours used to
identify biologically important areas for humpback whales include migrating, resting, breeding and calving. Behaviours
used to identify biologically important areas for three inshore dolphin species include breeding, calving and foraging.
Biologically important areas are included in the North-west Marine Region Conservation Values Atlas
(www.environment.gov.au/cva).
2. Vulnerabilities and pressures
Vulnerabilities
The life history characteristics of cetaceans make them susceptible to a range of pressures in the marine environment.
They are long-lived animals that are generally slow to reach sexual maturity and have low fecundity (e.g. producing only
one calf at a time and not necessarily calving every year). For example, female humpback whales do not reach sexual
maturity until four to eight years of age and, on average, have one calf at 2.4-year intervals, although this ranges from one
to more than five years (DEWHA 2010). In addition to these traits, many species travel relatively long distances to reach
resting, foraging and breeding areas. Consequently, many cetaceans are considered susceptible to anthropogenic impacts,
as evidenced by the impact that past commercial whaling had on populations of cetaceans in the region.
Inshore dolphins are particularly vulnerable to impacts from human activities as their nearshore coastal distribution
overlaps with the areas of highest human use in the marine environment. The vulnerability of inshore dolphins to
pressures is intensified due to their life history characteristics: they are long-lived, females take many years to reach
sexual maturity, they have a low rate of reproduction, sparse distribution within a wide range, low population sizes and
widely separated subpopulations.
The distribution of Australian snubfin dolphins is fragmented (Caughley & Gunn 1996; Parra 2006a, 2006b). Evidence
suggests that Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin distribution is also severely fragmented (Parra 2006a, 2006b) and this may
also be the case for the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, in at least some parts of its range. All three species exhibit site
fidelity and long-term associations between individuals. All of these factors further increase the vulnerability of these
dolphins to pressures that disturb or destroy their ability to maintain biologically important activities.
Analysis of pressures
On the basis of current information, pressures have been analysed for the eleven species discussed in this report card. A
summary of the pressure analysis for cetaceans is provided in Table 1. Only those pressures identified as of concern or
of potential concern are discussed in further detail below. An explanation of the pressure analysis process, including the
definition of substantial impact used in this analysis, is provided in Part 3 and Section 1.1 of Schedule 1 of the plan.
Table 1: Outputs of the cetacean species pressure analysis for the North-west Marine Region
Species
Inshore dolphins
Pressure
Sea level rise
Changes in sea
temperature
Pelagic dolphins
Source
Australian snubfin
Indo-Pacific
Indo-Pacific
dolphin
bottlenose dolphin
humpback dolphin
Bottlenose dolphin
Fraser’s dolphin
Climate change
Climate change
Ocean acidification
Climate change
Chemical pollution /
Shipping
contaminants
Vessels (other)
Urban development
Agricultural activities
Nutrient pollution
Urban development
Agricultural activities
Legend
of concern
of potential concern
of less concern
not of concern
data deficient or not assessed
Table 1 continued: Outputs of the cetacean species pressure analysis for the North-west Marine Region
Species
Inshore dolphins
Pressure
Marine debris
Pelagic dolphins
Source
Australian snubfin
Indo-Pacific
Indo-Pacific
dolphin
bottlenose dolphin
humpback dolphin
Bottlenose dolphin
Fraser’s dolphin
Shipping
Vessels (other)
Fishing boats
Land-based activities
Noise pollution
Seismic exploration
Shipping
Vessels (other)
Onshore and offshore
construction
Physical habitat
Dredging
modification
Dredge spoil
Offshore construction
and installation of
infrastructure
Onshore construction
Human presence at
Tourism
sensitive sites
Recreation and
charter fishing
Research
Extraction of living
Commercial fishing (non-
resources
domestic)
Prey depletion
Illegal, unregulated and
unreported fishing
Bycatch
Commercial fishing
(domestic)
Recreational fishing
Commercial fishing
(non-domestic)
Oil pollution
Shipping
Vessels (other)
Oil rigs
Collision with vessels
Shipping
Tourism
Fishing
Collision/entanglement
with infrastructure
Aquaculture
Changes in
Land-based activities
hydrological regimes
(reduced freshwater input)
Legend
of concern
of potential concern
of less concern
not of concern
data deficient or not assessed
Table 1 continued: Outputs of the cetacean species pressure analysis for the North-west Marine Region
Conservation value
Pelagic dolphins
Pressure
Sea level rise
Changes in sea
temperature
Source
Climate change
Climate change
Ocean acidification
Climate change
Chemical pollution /
Shipping
contaminants
Vessels (other)
Urban development
Agricultural activities
Nutrient pollution
Urban development
Agricultural activities
Marine debris
Shipping
Vessels (other)
Fishing boats
Land-based activities
Noise pollution
Seismic exploration
Shipping
Vessels (other)
Onshore and offshore
construction
Physical habitat
Dredging
modification
Dredge spoil
Offshore construction and
installation of
infrastructure
Onshore construction
Human presence at
Tourism
sensitive sites
Recreation and charter
fishing (burleying)
Research
Extraction of living
Commercial fishing (non-
resources
domestic)
Commercial fishing
(prey depletion)
Illegal, unregulated and
unreported fishing
Bycatch
Commercial fishing
(domestic)
Commercial fishing (nondomestic)
Recreational fishing
Oil pollution
Shipping
Vessels (other)
Oil rigs
Risso’s
Rough-toothed
dolphin
dolphin
Whales
Spinner dolphin,
Spotted dolphin or
Striped dolphin
long-snouted
pantropical spotted
or Euphrosyne
spinner dolphin
dolphin
dolphin
Humpback
whale
Conservation value
Pelagic dolphins
Pressure
Collision with vessels
Source
Risso’s
Rough-toothed
dolphin
dolphin
Whales
Spinner dolphin,
Spotted dolphin or
Striped dolphin
long-snouted
pantropical spotted
or Euphrosyne
spinner dolphin
dolphin
dolphin
Humpback
whale
Shipping
Tourism
Fishing
Collision/entanglement
with infrastructure
Aquaculture infrastructure
Changes in hydrological Land-based activities
regimes
Legend
(reduced freshwater input)
of concern
of potential concern
of less concern
not of concern
data deficient or not assessed
Sea level rise—climate change
Sea level rise is assessed as of potential concern for Australian snubfin dolphins. Sea level has been rising at
approximately 7.1 millimetres per year in the North-west Marine Region since the 1990s, the largest increase in Australia
(National Tidal Centre 2010). Global sea levels have risen by 20 centimetres between 1870 and 2004 and predictions
estimate a further rise of 5–15 centimetres by 2030, relative to 1990 levels (Church et al. 2009). Longer term predictions
estimate increases of 0.5 to 1.0 metre by 2100, relative to 2000 levels (Climate Commission 2011). The main concern
with sea level rise is the potential consequences when this pressure is combined with increasing cyclone frequency
(Climate Commission 2011; DCC 2009). Predictions for the North-west Marine Region in 2100 are for a hundred-fold
increase in extreme sea level events in the Pilbara and up to a thousand-fold increase in the Kimberley (DCC 2009).
Sea level rise is expected to have long-term impacts in areas adjacent to the North-west Marine Region including
mangrove habitats and seagrass beds, which are important habitats for Australian snubfin dolphins and their prey (Parra
& Corkeron 2001; Parra et al. 2002; Robertson & Arnold 2009). While the impacts of sea level rise on inshore dolphins
are likely to be mainly in coastal waters, any consequent changes in habitat availability or prey may affect the species
across its range.
Changes in sea temperature—climate change
Changes in sea temperature are assessed as of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and
Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. Sea temperatures have warmed by 0.7 ºC between 1910–1929 and 1989–2008, and
current projections estimate ocean temperatures will be 1 ºC warmer by 2030 (Lough 2009). Changes in sea
temperature have trophic level effects on prey species (Hobday et al. 2006; Lough 2009; McLeod 2009), with
subsequent negative effects on higher trophic level species, such as dolphins. For example, sea temperature changes
are predicted to have a significant impact on the distribution and abundance of benthic and demersal fish, which are
primary prey for inshore dolphin species. A large impact on zooplankton distribution and abundance is also predicted
and will affect the diet of inshore dolphin prey species (Hobday et al. 2006). This may change marine food web
dynamics in the region.
Ocean acidification—climate change
Ocean acidification is assessed as of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Indo-Pacific
humpback dolphins. Driven by increasing levels of atmospheric CO2 and subsequent chemical changes in the ocean,
acidification is already underway and detectible. Since pre-industrial times, acidification has lowered ocean pH by 0.1
units (Howard et al. 2009). Furthermore, climate models predict this trend will continue, with a further 0.2–0.3 unit decline
by 2100 (Howard et al. 2009)
Increased acidity in the North-west Marine Region may alter prey availability and may also have a physiological effect on
many species, although accurate calculation of impacts is not possible at present (Howard et al. 2009; Raven et al.
2005). Coral reefs are likely to be particularly affected by increasing acidity. Ocean acidification will compromise carbon
accretion and, together with increasing ocean temperatures, may result in loss of ecosystems based on geological
features formed from coral or coralline algae (Hoegh-Guldberg et al. 2007; Hoegh-Guldberg 2011; Kleypas & Yates
2009; Kuffner et al. 2008). Increasing acidity impairs the ability of species with calcareous shells—such as echinoderms,
crustaceans, and molluscs—to maintain shell integrity, resulting in reductions of the overall abundance and biodiversity
of these species (reviewed by Kleypas & Yates 2009). A decrease in the abundance of fauna with carbonate-based
skeletons and coral and coralline algae, and the complex structural habitats they create, could lead to changes in
ecosystem structures, processes and connectivity between the reef complex and the adjacent deeper waters. Both
bottlenose dolphins and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins feed on reef species and snubfin dolphins are found in habitat
complexes that include reefs. However, the impact of loss of reef prey on these dolphin species is not yet known.
Chemical pollution and nutrient pollution/contaminants—urban development, agricultural activities
Chemical and nutrient pollution from urban development and agricultural activities is of potential concern for Australian
snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. Inshore dolphins have been recorded in the
nearshore waters of the region, adjacent to coastal communities including Exmouth, Onslow, Dampier Archipelago, Port
Hedland and Broome (Allen et al. in press 2012). Cetaceans that predominantly utilise coastal waters are more
susceptible to high levels of chemical pollutants than wholly offshore species (Jacob 2009). Various pollutants, such as
heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, nutrients and sediments, enter Australian waters from many different sources,
including industrial and sewage discharges, catchment run-off and groundwater infiltration (Cosser 1997; Hale 1997;
Haynes & Johnson 2000; Kemper et al. 1994). Many of these compounds have adverse physiological effects on a variety
of vertebrates. These effects—which include immunosuppression, hepatoxicity, carcinogenesis, reproductive and
developmental toxicity, dermal toxicity and neurotoxicity—can lead to impaired fertility, reduced fecundity and increased
mortality. The concentration and rapid growth of industry in the North-west Marine Region will increase this pressure on
coastal resources. The ecological significance of existing contaminants within the range of inshore dolphins is not known
and the adverse effects of complex mixtures of organohalogen compounds, polychlorinated dibenzodioxins and
polychlorinated dibenzofurans on marine mammal health are not fully understood, but their toxic properties and high
concentration in bottlenose dolphins and dugongs along the Queensland coast (Gaus et al. 2004) suggests they may
also be a growing threat to inshore dolphins in other areas of these species’ ranges. This threat is likely to escalate as
industrial and agricultural activities along the coastline increase (Bannister et al. 1996).
Marine debris
Marine debris is assessed as of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific humpback and Indo-Pacific
bottlenose dolphins. Increasing quantities of plastic objects and debris are entering the world’s oceans each year. The
injury and fatality to vertebrate marine life caused by ingestion of, or entanglement in, harmful marine debris is listed
as a key threatening process under the EPBC Act. All dolphin species are at risk of entanglement or capture in nets,
ingestion of plastic, and displacement from habitat (Bannister et al. 1996). However, the degree of impact of marine
debris on inshore dolphins in the North-west Marine Region is largely unknown.
Whales and dolphins have been recorded entangled in derelict fishing gear around Australia’s coasts (Chatto & Warneke
2000). Polyfilament and monofilament scarring on individuals and net injuries have been recorded in other regions, as
well as in coastal waters of Western Australia (WWF 2010). Since 1998 there have been 104 records of cetaceans in
Australian waters impacted by plastic debris through entanglement or ingestion, with most (92.2%) relating to
entanglement (Ceccarelli 2009). Between 1990 and 2008 the death or injury of 14 species was directly attributed to
interactions with plastic debris (Ceccarelli 2009). Species affected include the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin and
bottlenose dolphin (Ceccarelli 2009). A particular hazard for cetaceans is the large quantity of fishing net at sea (known
as ghost net). A report published by WWF (2010) revealed that in a population of snubfin dolphins in Roebuck Bay, some
individuals had markings consistent with injuries from fishing gear and others had markings resulting from fishing gear
interactions and vessel strike. These injuries are likely due to the strong overlap between key foraging and socialising
areas for snubfin dolphins and hotspot fishing locations and boat launching areas.
Noise pollution—shipping; construction; seismic exploration
Noise pollution from shipping, offshore construction and onshore construction (such as port development) is assessed to
be of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins and
humpback whales. In addition, noise pollution from seismic exploration is assessed to be of potential concern for
humpback whales. There is growing concern that anthropogenic noise poses a significant threat to the survival of
cetaceans because it may mask sounds that are vital for navigation, identifying the location of prey and predators,
announcing location and territory, establishing dominance, attracting mates, and maintaining group cohesion and social
interactions (Nowacek et al. 2007; Ramono et al. 2004; Richardson et al. 1995; Simmonds et al. 2004). Close exposure
to loud noise may also cause temporary or permanent physical damage to sensory systems (Di Iorio & Clark 2010;
Nowacek et al. 2007; Richardson et al. 1995).
Onshore and offshore construction can generate significant levels of noise from activities such as pile driving and
explosives. Pile driving creates pulsing sounds at noise levels that overlap with the highest hearing sensitivities in baleen
whales (Salgado Kent et al. 2009). Pile driving and dredging associated with port developments are also within the
frequencies to which dolphins are sensitive (Salgado Kent et al. 2009). Inshore dolphins are known to utilise the
nearshore waters of the region where coastal development is occurring (Allen et al. in press 2012). Given cetaceans’
sensitive hearing and the known effects of underwater noise, disturbance and displacement of inshore dolphins may
occur when exposed to even low levels of underwater noise. A number of projects are under development in Western
Australia that will introduce noise from blasting and other construction and maintenance activities into the marine
environment for extended periods (Salgado Kent et al. 2009; WADSD 2010). The cumulative effects of these activities
along the north-west coast could impact negatively on the behaviour, extent of occurrence or area of occupancy of
inshore dolphins and humpback whales.
Shipping noise directly overlaps with the frequency range of baleen whales. A recent study in the United States found
evidence of increased stress levels in right whales due to noise from shipping traffic (Rolland et al. 2012).
The North-west Marine Region and adjacent areas are traversed by a range of vessels, including shipping; commercial,
recreational and charter fishing vessels; cruise ships and tour boats. Shipping is already a major activity in the region,
transporting goods between Australian and international ports. For example, in 2009–10, 4657 vessels arrived at the Port
of Dampier (DPA 2010), around 1200 vessels at the Port of Broome (BPA 2010) and 1303 vessels at the Port of Port
Hedland (PHPA 2010). Shipping traffic in the region is expected to increase (Clifton et al. 2007), particularly due to
increasing oil and gas exploration and new port developments associated with resource sector expansion. Increased
vessel traffic will increase the levels of noise in the marine environment.
Oil and gas exploration and other geophysical surveys use seismic ‘air-guns’, which generate a rapid release of air
under high pressure to obtain a geological profile of the sea floor and substrate. This activity creates a noise signal
with peak frequencies that overlap the acoustic range used by baleen whales. This activity has been found to alter the
vocal behaviour of blue whales and may similarly affect other baleen whales (Di Iorio & Clark 2010). High levels of
seismic activity may result in baleen whales (e.g. humpback whales) detouring from migration routes or their
displacement from important breeding and calving areas. Extremely close encounters may damage their ears. The
EPBC Act Policy Statement 2.1: Interaction between offshore seismic exploration and whales provides guidance on
measures to minimise potential impacts of seismic surveys on cetaceans (DEWHA 2008b). Seismic surveying in the
North-west Marine Region is increasing due to the expansion of
the resource sector.
Physical habitat modification—dredging; onshore and offshore construction
Physical habitat modification due to onshore and offshore construction and dredging is assessed to be of potential concern
for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific humpback and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. Oil and gas exploration and extraction
is expanding in and adjacent to the North-west Marine Region. Port facilities for the export of minerals, especially iron ore
from the Pilbara, are increasing in number. There are 12 ports adjacent to the North-west Marine Region, and a number of
new ports (including James Price Point, Port Hedland expansion, Dixon Island, Cape Lambert and Cape Preston) are being
considered (DPI 2007; IRC 2007). This increase in industry involves dredging, pile driving and shoreline modification
activities that have the potential to negatively impact on inshore dolphins. Dredging the sea floor is required during
the construction of ports and subsequent maintenance of shipping channels.
Construction activities that physically modify the marine environment have the potential to displace populations of
dolphins that rely on specific characteristics of an area. Inshore dolphins are known to utilise the nearshore waters of the
region where dredging and construction are occurring such as the Dampier Archipelago, Port Hedland and Onslow (Allen
et al. in press 2012). As populations of inshore dolphins are small and localised, they are particularly susceptible to
habitat degradation and displacement from coastal construction activities (Corkeron et al. 1997; Parra et al. 2006; Ross
2006). Although the long-term impacts of habitat loss and degradation on cetaceans in Australia are largely unknown,
globally, habitat loss and degradation due to development has significantly affected many cetacean populations (CMS
2011; Elliot et al. 2009; IUCN 2010; Jefferson et al. 2009). Dredging for major developments can occur at considerable
scale and over a number of years, particularly with port developments. These activities are likely to result in local-scale
change in the composition, structure and function of the coastal estuarine habitat and increase the potential for a wide
range of pressures including direct removal of key inshore dolphin habitat (for example, seagrass and mangroves),
physical disturbance and sedimentation. Depending on area and extent, the removal of bottom materials can reduce or
eliminate elements of benthic communities important to local populations of cetaceans (Bannister et al. 1996).
Human presence at sensitive sites—tourism; recreational and charter fishing
Human presence at sensitive sites is assessed as of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose
and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. The expedition and cruising industry in the Kimberley region is growing in both the
size and number of vessels, offering adventure and luxury cruises along the coast between Broome and Wyndham,
including wildlife interactions (Scherrer et al. 2008). Small, isolated coastal cetacean populations, with little or no
emigration or immigration, are more vulnerable to biological impacts from vessel disturbance and tourism, even with low
levels of exposure (Bejder et al. 2006; Lusseau et al. 2006). There is substantial evidence that vessel disturbance can
cause repeated disruption to cetacean feeding, breeding, social or resting behaviour, and can ultimately have adverse
impacts on reproductive success, distribution and ranging patterns, access to preferred habitat, and individual health
and fitness (Barr & Slooten 1999; Bejder & Samuels 2003; Bejder et al. 2006; Lusseau 2004, Ng and Leung 2003).
The Australian national guidelines for whale and dolphin watching 2005 (DEH 2006) outlines the standards that allow
people to observe and interact with whales and dolphins in a way that ensures animals are not harmed. Tourism
operations differ considerably in approaches to environmental management (Scherrer et al. 2008). Tourism in the
Kimberley is partly regulated through charter fishing licences and permit requirements for state national parks, but wildlife
interactions are difficult to monitor in remote locations and the fast growing industry will require more coordinated
management in the future (Scherrer et al. 2008).
Bycatch—commercial fishing
Bycatch from commercial fishing is of concern for the bottlenose, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Fraser’s dolphins and of
potential concern for the snubfin and Indo-Pacific humpback. Bycatch occurs when dolphins become entangled in set
nets and mostly results in drowning. The impact of bycatch can be large for marine mammal populations because they
are long-lived, have slow growth rates and low fecundity (Cox et al. 2003).
Gillnets and similar nets are the most likely to affect inshore dolphins due to overlaps in habitat and fishing areas (Read
et al. 2006; Reeves et al. 2003; Reeves & Brownell 2009; Slooten 2007). There are examples of high cetacean bycatch
rates wherever cetacean distribution and gillnet fisheries overlap (Jefferson & Curry 1994; Perrin et al. 1994a; Read et al.
2006; Reeves et al. 2003). Studies of the diets of snubfin and humpback dolphins (Heinsohn 1979; Marsh et al. 1989;
Parra & Jedensjö 2009) indicate that coastal and estuarine waters are important foraging habitats and as a result these
species are at greater risk of directly or indirectly interacting with fisheries operating in coastal waters (Parra & Jedensjö
2009).
The degree to which past inshore gillnet fishing has impacted these species has not been investigated. In the 1970s and
1980s inshore gillnet fishing for barramundi and other species was widespread and unregulated. There have been
reports that the scale of set nets across tidal creek mouths in the Northern Territory and the Kimberley was extensive
(Messel et al. 1987). It is possible that many inshore dolphins were caught during this period and that their current
numbers represent recovering populations.
Dolphins have been recorded as bycatch in the Pilbara Trawl Fishery (Allen & Loneragan 2010). Allen and Loneragan
(2010) reported that common bottlenose dolphin was the species most commonly caught as bycatch in the fishery. Other
species included the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin and Fraser’s dolphin. Based on logbook and observer figures, an
estimated 20 to 50 dolphins were captured in 2008–09. However, this number may be higher as the current exclusion
devices may lead to under-reporting of injury and mortality as some animals fall to the sea floor unobserved (Allen &
Loneragan 2010). It is unclear what impact this level of bycatch has on the populations of the species affected.
Oil pollution—shipping; other vessels; oil rigs
Oil pollution from shipping and oil rigs is assessed as of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose
and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. Australia has a strong system for regulating industry activity that is the potential
source of oil spills and this system has been strengthened further in response to the Montara oil spill. While oil spills are
unpredictable events and their likelihood is low based on past experience, their consequences, especially for threatened
species at important areas, could be severe. The growth of the resources sector in the North-west Marine Region has
resulted in an increase in port facilities and shipping as well as petroleum exploration and development. As technology
advances, petroleum operations are expanding into deeper waters. The isolated distribution of inshore dolphin
populations and low numbers of animals at many sites means that a spill that affects a biologically important area for any
of these species could have population-level impacts due to displacement, loss of habitat, loss of access to prey and/or
death of individual dolphins.
Collision with vessels
Collision with vessels is of potential concern for Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback
dolphins and humpback whales. Vessel traffic in the North-west Marine Region is increasing. The expansion of northern
Western Australia’s economy is reflected in the increasing number of vessel visits to the region’s ports and intensification
of shipping activity (IRC 2007). Population growth in the region is also likely to lead to an increase in the use of
recreational vessels for fishing and tourism.
Increasing shipping activity and the large and growing number of humpback whales undertaking annual migration along
the Western Australian coastline means that the likelihood of vessel strikes on humpback whales is also increasing.
Humpback whales are vulnerable to vessel collision because they spend their migration in coastal waters (generally
fewer than 30 kilometres from shore) and rest in shallow waters on their southern migration where human activities are
often more intensive. Due to the growth in oil and gas exploration, offshore construction and port developments, shipping
traffic in the region is predicted to increase (Clifton et al. 2007) and shipping routes overlap with the migration route of
humpback whales.
Inshore dolphins have been recorded in the nearshore waters of the region, adjacent to coastal communities including
Exmouth, Onslow, Dampier Archipelago, Port Hedland and Broome (Allen et al. in press 2012). Important habitat for the
Australian snubfin, Indo-Pacific humpback and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins overlaps with gillnet recreational fishing
and boating areas(WWF 2010). Currently there is little information about vessel strike in the region, although there are
records of injuries to inshore dolphin species from vessel strike in adjacent waters, including Roebuck Bay, Yampi Sound
and Cone Bay (Thiele 2010; WWF 2010). In addition, the expedition and cruising industry in the Kimberley region is
growing in both the size and number of vessels, (Scherrer et al. 2008). The expected increase in vessel numbers and the
overlaps between inshore dolphin habitats and human populations will increase the probability of boat strikes occurring.
Cetaceans exposed to prolonged vessel disturbance can suffer from repeated disruption to feeding, breeding, social or
resting behaviour and can ultimately experience adverse impacts on reproductive success, distribution and ranging
patterns, access to preferred habitat, and individual health and fitness (Bejder & Samuels 2003; Bedjer et al. 2006).
Changes in hydrological regimes—land-based activities
Changes in hydrological regimes as a result of land-based activities are assessed as of potential concern for Australian
snubfin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. Although changes to hydrological regimes are few
in the North-west Marine Region and adjacent areas at present, proposals have been made to divert ‘excess’ water from
the Kimberley wet season flows to Perth and other areas in southern Western Australia. Australian tropical rivers have
highly energetic, episodic flows related to the monsoonal wet season that transport sediments downstream with little
trapping of materials in waterways (Brodie & Mitchell 2005). The wet season freshwater input into the nearshore marine
environments of the Kimberley coast is a significant driver for critical ecological processes for many marine species.
Changes in hydrological regimes could lead to adverse changes in these ecological processes with negative
consequences for marine species.
As populations of inshore dolphins are small and localised, they are particularly susceptible to changes in their habitats
(Corkeron et al. 1997; Parra et al. 2006; Ross 2006). Although the specific impact of changes in hydrological regimes on
inshore dolphins is currently unknown, it is likely that the species could be negatively affected by the reduction in
productivity of nearshore marine environments that changes in hydrological regimes could cause.
3. Relevant protection measures
The Australian Whale Sanctuary was established under the EPBC Act to protect all whales and dolphins in Australian
waters. The Australian Whale Sanctuary comprises the Commonwealth marine area and covers all of Australia’s
Exclusive Economic Zone which generally extends out to 200 nautical miles from the coast and includes the waters
surrounding Australia’s external territories such as Christmas, Cocos (Keeling), Norfolk, Heard and Macdonald Islands.
Within the Australian Whale Sanctuary, it is an offence to kill, injure or interfere with a cetacean. Severe penalties apply
to anyone convicted of such offences. More information about the Australian Whale Sanctuary can be found at
<www.environment.gov.au/coasts/species/cetaceans/conservation/sanctuary.html>
Ten species of cetacean that occur in the North-west Marine Region are also listed under the EPBC Act as threatened
and/or migratory (Attachment 1, Table A1). Alongside the EPBC Act, a broad range of sector-specific management
measures to address environmental issues and mitigate impacts apply to activities that take place in Commonwealth
marine areas. These measures give effect to regulatory and administrative requirements under Commonwealth and state
legislation for activities such as commercial and recreational fishing, oil and gas exploration and production, ports
activities and maritime transport. In some instances, as in the case of shipping, these measures also fulfil Australia’s
obligations under a number of international conventions for the protection of the marine environment from pollution and
environmental harm.
EPBC Act conservation plans and action plans
 Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching
 Threat abatement plan for the impacts of marine debris on vertebrate marine life
(DEWHA 2009)
 The action plan for Australian cetaceans (Bannister et al. 1996)
 EPBC Act Policy Statement 2.1: Interaction between offshore seismic exploration
and whales (DEWHA 2008b)
 Humpback whale recovery plan, 2005–2010 (DEH 2005)
International measures
Australia is a signatory to the following international measures for the conservation
of cetaceans:
 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) —www.cites.org
 The Bonn Convention: Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS)—www.cms.int
 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)—www.cbd.int/convention
 Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)—www.ccamlr.org
 International Whaling Commission (IWC)—www.iwcoffice.org/commission/convention.htm.
For more information on conservation listings under the EPBC Act and related management objectives and protection
measures visit:
 www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protect/species-communities.html
(listed threatened species)
 www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protect/migratory.html
(listed migratory species)
 www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl
(species profile and threats database)
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ATTACHMENT 1: CETACEAN SPECIES
OCCURRING IN THE NORTH-WEST
MARINE REGION
Table A1: Cetacean species known to occur in the North-west Marine Region
Species
(common name/scientific name)
Conservation status
Inshore dolphins
Australian snubfin dolphin (Orcaella heinsohni)
Migratory, cetacean
Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin,
Indian Ocean bottlenose dolphin
or spotted bottlenose dolphin
(Tursiops aduncus)
(Arafura/Timor sea population only)
Migratory, Cetacean
Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis)
Migratory, cetacean
Pelagic dolphins
Bottlenose dolphin(Tursiops truncatus s. str.)
Cetacean
Fraser’s dolphin or Sarawak dolphin
(Lagenodelphis hosei)
Cetacean
Risso’s dolphin or grampus (Grampus griseus)
Cetacean
Rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis)
Cetacean
Short-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) & Indo-Pacific
common dolphin (Delphinus c. tropicalis)1
Cetacean
Spinner dolphin or long-snouted
spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris)2
Cetacean
Spotted dolphin or pantropical spotted dolphin
(Stenella attenuata)2
Cetacean
Striped dolphin or, Euphrosyne dolphin
(Stenella coeruleoalba)2
Cetacean
1
The taxonomy of this species is still unclear.
2
The taxonomy of Stenella species is still unclear
Species
(common name/scientific name)
Conservation status
Whales
Antarctic minke whale or darkshoulder minke whale
(Balaenoptera bonaerensis)
Migratory, cetacean
Blainville’s beaked whale or dense-beaked whale
(Mesoplodon densirostris)
Cetacean
Blue whale or pygmy blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus)
Endangered, migratory, cetacean
Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera edeni)
Migratory, cetacean
Cuvier’s beaked whale or goosebeaked whale
(Ziphius cavirostris)
Cetacean
Dwarf minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata subsp.)
Cetacean
Dwarf sperm whale (Kogia simus)
Cetacean
False killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens)
Cetacean
Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus)
Vulnerable, migratory, cetacean
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Vulnerable, migratory, cetacean
Killer whale, orca (Orcinus orca)
Migratory, cetacean
Melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra)
Cetacean
Pygmy killer whale (Feresa attenuata)
Cetacean
Pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps)
Cetacean
Short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus)
Cetacean
Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus)
Migratory, cetacean
Table A2: Cetacean species known to occur in the North-west Marine Region on an infrequent basis
Species (common/scientific name)
Conservation status
Andrew’s beaked whale or splaytooth beaked whale
(Mesoplodon bowdoini)
Cetacean
Gingko-toothed beaked whale, Gingko-toothed
whale or Gingko beaked whale
(Mesoplodon ginkgodens)
Cetacean
Gray’s beaked whale or Scamperdown whale
(Mesoplodon grayi)
Cetacean
Hector’s beaked whale (Mesoplodon hectori)
Cetacean
Long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas)
Cetacean
Sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis)
Vulnerable, migratory, cetacean
Southern right whale (Eubalaena australis)
Endangered, migratory, cetacean
Strap-toothed beaked whale, strap-toothed
whale or Layard’s beaked whale
(Mesoplodon layardii)
Cetacean
True’s beaked whale (Mesoplodon mirus)
Cetacean
Legend
MAR178.0612
of concern
of potential concern
of less concern
not of concern
data deficient or not assessed