PHOTO: WILL RAYMENT
Scientists from the University of Otago and the University of Auckland, and the Department of Conservation, are appealing to the public to report sightings of the whales for a new study researching their genetic make-up and tracking their population growth.
The study will contribute to scientists better understanding the species.
Sightings of tohora are possible almost anywhere during the winter months, from Southland to Northland.
The whales are mainly black in colour, and easily identified by white growths on their heads, called callosities.
Anyone who sees them is asked to call Doc’s hotline (0800 36-24-68).
