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Dive into the world of whales with wildlife scientist Dr Vanessa Pirotta

Dr Vanessa Pirotta is an award-winning wildlife scientist, researcher, author, public speaker and prominent conservation advocate for the incredible creatures in our oceans. She’s also the latest ‘conservation superstar’ in our series spotlighting the incredible people working to protect our precious natural places and the unique species that call NSW home. Her most well-known research used drones to collect snot (lung bacteria) sprayed in the air from the blowholes of migrating humpback whales as a new way to monitor their health. She’s also recently published a book that dives into the mysterious world of this species. Whale research projects have led her to far-off lands – well, seas – including Antarctica, Madagascar and the Galapagos Islands, but it’s the waters closer to home in national parks around Sydney where some of her most innovative studies are taking place now. We sat down with Vanessa to chat about all things of the deep blue, how she uses research to inspire the next generation to care about protecting wildlife and 90s movie masterpiece Free Willy.

 
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A post shared by Dr Vanessa Pirotta🐋🦎 (@drvanessapirotta)

[block_green]Vanessa has collaborated with NSW National Parks to provide expert info on whale behaviour and conservation. Check out her article about whale migration and head here for more fascinating whale facts and whale watching tips, including the best places to spot whales in parks.[/block_green]

Humback whale breaching.
Photo Information David Rogers/DCCEEW

Must see

Hike, picnic, explore – nature’s possibilities are endless.

  • Friends on a road trip to Mungo National Park. Photo credit: Melissa Findley/OEH

    Road Trips

    Must do itineraries for day trips and multi-day adventures

  • Two people sitting outside a tent preparing a drink on a portable stove in a nsw national park campground. Photo credit: Remy Brand / DPE

    Camping & Cottages

    Sleep under the stars or unwind in a rustic cabin or historic cottage

  • Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk, Warrumbungle National Park. Photo credit: Rob Mulally/DPIE

    Hiking & Bushwalks

    From leisurely strolls to blood pumping hikes, there’s a nature trail just for you.

  • A family in two canoes paddles down the Murray River, Murray Valley National Park. Photo credit: Boen Ferguson/DPIE

    Activities

    Canoeing, kayaking, canyoning or a spot of picnicking, anyone?

  • Person pointing at a small mushroom on a tree, Werrikimbe National Park. Photo credit: Rob Mulally/DPIE

    Nature & Wellness

    Nature makes us feel great. Learn about plants and animals and how you can help us protect them

  • NPWS field officer in light rain. Photo credit: Branden Bodman/OEH

    Ranger Tips

    Essential know-how to get the best out of your visit

Rainforest. Beach. Mountains. Desert. Pick the epic setting for your next escape.

Stories from conservation champions and nature lovers.

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