OCEAN FRIENDS
Amidst rich biodiversity and carefully preserved habitats, Magnetic Island's marine parks offer a glimpse into the wonders of the underwater world and serve as a reminder of the importance of conservation and preservation of these delicate ecosystems. They showcase diverse marine ecosystems, teeming with life, including whales, dolphins, dugongs, and turtles.
Each year the waters surrounding the island come alive with the annual humpback whale migration. These majestic animals travel to our warmer waters to feed, mate and give birth before returning south with their calves. Several tours offer the chance to whale watch, or you may be lucky enough to spot them from one of our many beaches or walkways. Mid-July to August is typically the best time to see them.
DUGONGS
The waters surrounding Magnetic Island have extensive seagrass meadows that attract dugongs. Because of this, Cleveland Bay and all the waters around Magnetic Island are a declared Dugong Protection Area. Look out for dugongs, especially in shallow areas and reduce your boat speed if you see a dugong or any large marine animal.
DOLPHINS
Both Australian Snubfin and Australian humpback dolphins are found along the Northern Australian coast. Both species are listed as vulnerable in Queensland under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and near threatened by the IUCN Red List (International Union for Conservation of Nature) of Threatened Species. Snubfin dolphins are more commonly seen around the island.
TURTLES
The Townsville coast is home to six of the seven species of sea turtles found on our planet. The common names for these species are the green, flatback, leatherback, loggerhead, hawksbill, and olive ridley.
Unfortunately, all these species are classified as vulnerable or endangered (susceptible to extinction). During the Summer months, we often see flatbacks and green turtles nesting on the beaches, although the island is not deemed to be a major nesting site.
An interesting fact: the turtles who hatch on Magnetic Island, will return here to breed and nest again, once matured in 30 to 50 years time.
Townsville is home to the Reef HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital which provides a dedicated facility where sick and injured marine turtles can be cared for and rehabilitated.
During nesting season (November to March),
please take note of the following:
Report any sighting of nesting turtles, nests or tracks to local rangers on 0407 590 378 or 07 4778 5378
Do not disturb nesting turtles with light, noise or movement. Keep at least 50 metres away.
Do not light fires on the beaches
Keep vehicles off sand-dunes and beaches
Control dogs to prevent them from digging up or disrupting turtle nests.
WHALES
