Two extremely rare White Southern Right Whale calves, affectionately named Snowflake and Snow White, were spotted in Hartenbos, making for an experience even better than real snow!
Hartenbos, South Africa (05 August 2024) — In a particularly special whale sighting this Whale Season, two White Southern Right Whale calves (affectionately and aptly named Snowflake and Snow White) were spotted in Hartenbos!
While Southern Right Whales are always a wonder to witness along the Western Cape coastlines (especially from July to December as part of their breeding season where they can be seen in places like Hermanus and De Hoop) the rare pair marked a sighting better than experiencing snow for those who got a glimpse of them.
One spotter and photographer Michael de Nobrega shared that seeing Snowflake and Snow White was “an extraordinary experience”.
Michael first spotted Snowflake in late July before getting to see her two more times later on in the month. Snow White too was spotted in late July with both whales seen in Hartenbos, close to the shoreline.
Explaining why White Southern Right Whales are an extraordinary phenomenon, Michael explains that it is because their appearance is incredibly rare (which is saying a lot, considering that Southern Right Whales themselves are endangered).
Their appearance, according to biologist and Garden Route Trail owner Mark Dixon, classifies them as ‘grey morphs’ which make up only 4% of their population—a recessive combination gene.
“The chances of seeing two White Southern Right Whales, like Snowflake and Snow White, in the same region are extraordinarily rare. This unique occurrence highlights the rich biodiversity of the Garden Route and the importance of protecting such genetic traits,” Michael said.
“These white whales remind us of the incredible biodiversity in our oceans and the necessity of marine conservation. Their rare appearance draws attention to the broader challenges marine species face. Protecting these creatures ensures future generations can marvel at such wonders and maintain our planet’s ocean health.”
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