Australia: Minister moves to further protect calving whales

Western Australian Environment Minister Judy Edwards has flagged tougher rules to keep people away from female whales and calves which come close to shore.

Swimmers are required to stay 30 metres away from the creatures while boats and kayaks must stay back at least 100 metres.

Dr Edwards says she wants swimmers to maintain a distance of 100 metres, with a 200m distance applying to boats.

The tougher rules being drafted by the Department of Conservation are in response to a southern right whale and her calf being disturbed just north of Mindarie Beach.

Dr Edwards says female whales need more privacy and respect while feeding their calves.

Source: www.abc.net.au