Humpback Highway: A Dive Into the Secret Life of Whales
By Wildlife Scientist Vanessa Pirotta
If you’ve ever been fascinated by the majestic humpback whales that cruise past Sydney and up Australia’s East Coast, Humpback Highway by acclaimed marine scientist Dr Vanessa Pirotta is a must-read. This insightful and engaging book takes readers deep into the world of one of nature’s most mysterious and intelligent ocean giants.
What Is the Humpback Highway?
Every year, over 30,000 humpback whales migrate along Australia’s East Coast from Antarctica to tropical Queensland, in what’s known as the Humpback Highway. From Sydney to Hervey Bay, these whales travel thousands of kilometres to breed and give birth, creating one of the most spectacular natural events on Earth.
But behind the beauty of their breaches and tails lies a hidden world—one filled with danger, survival, and astonishing biology.
About the Author: Dr Vanessa Pirotta
Dr Vanessa Pirotta is not your average wildlife researcher. She’s a whale scientist, science communicator, and adventurer who’s been:
- Mugged by curious whales
- Touched by a newborn calf
- Sprayed with whale snot (on purpose)
Her infectious enthusiasm for marine life and her commitment to protecting whales has taken her from research boats to TEDx stages, where she shares the secrets of these gentle giants with the world.
Inside Humpback Highway: What You’ll Learn
Whale Life Cycles and Social Behaviour
Pirotta dives into the life stages of humpback whales, from birth to migration. Learn how calves bond with their mothers, how males compete for attention, and what scientists now know about whale songs, breaching, and communication.
Whale Snot, Poop and Ocean Health
It sounds unappealing—but it’s groundbreaking.
In Humpback Highway, you’ll discover why whale poo plays a vital role in ocean ecosystems by fertilising phytoplankton, the tiny marine plants that produce most of the world’s oxygen.
Meanwhile, whale snot is being used by scientists like Pirotta to study:
- Whale health and hormones
- DNA
- Stress levels and pathogens
And how do they collect it? With drones flying through the whale’s exhale.
Tech Meets Nature: Modern Whale Research
From satellite tracking to underwater microphones, Humpback Highway reveals the high-tech tools that are revolutionising how scientists study whales in the wild, including:
- Listening to whale songs from thousands of kilometres away
- Tracking migration in near real-time
- Identifying individual whales from photos and DNA
The Human Impact on Humpbacks
As majestic as they are, humpback whales face a range of threats from human activity, including:
- Ship strikes
- Plastic pollution
- Climate change
- Noise pollution from underwater traffic
Pirotta shines a light on how these challenges affect whale populations and what we can do to help.
Why You Should Read Humpback Highway
Whether you’re a whale watching enthusiast in Sydney, a student of marine science, or simply curious about the oceans, this book is a beautifully written, accessible guide to:
- Understanding the importance of the East Coast migration
- Appreciating how whales contribute to marine health
- Learning how science, conservation, and storytelling can spark real change
Best Time to Spot Whales on the Humpback Highway
Whale season in Sydney generally runs from May to November, making it the perfect time to pair a tour with a read of Humpback Highway. As you watch whales breach just offshore, you’ll have a richer understanding of their behaviour, thanks to insights from Pirotta’s research.
Where to Buy the Book
Humpback Highway is available at:
- Booktopia
- Amazon Australia
- Local bookstores
- Libraries and science centres
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Ocean Lovers
Humpback Highway offers more than just whale facts — it’s a passionate, witty, and deeply personal account of what it means to be a marine scientist in the 21st century. With humour, humility, and plenty of adventure, Vanessa Pirotta opens a window into the underwater lives of whales in a way that inspires action and awe.
Whether you’re exploring the Humpback Highway from a boat or your beach chair, this book belongs on your reading list.
Learn More and Experience It Firsthand
Ready to see the whales for yourself?
Join a small group tour with Barefoot Whale Watching Sydney and experience the magic of the Humpback Highway up close with marine-loving locals.
