Scientists have identified a significant seasonal gathering of whale sharks at Wreck Bay, located on the northern edge of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, marking the first known aggregation in eastern Australia and the southwest Pacific.

This discovery was confirmed through a combination of historical sightings, oceanographic data, and satellite tagging, including tracking a shark initially spotted near Cooktown.

The congregation mainly consists of juvenile male whale sharks, with 59 individuals identified over four expeditions from 2019 to 2024, ranging from 3.5 to 8 meters in size.

The gathering occurs primarily in late November and December during the monsoon season, when nutrient-rich waters create dense feeding patches, attracting sharks mostly at dusk and night.

This seasonal congregation offers a critical opportunity for researchers to study whale shark behavior and populations, which is vital for regional and global conservation efforts.

Experts highlight the importance of integrating local ecological knowledge and citizen science to deepen understanding of whale sharks and enhance conservation strategies.

While whale sharks face threats such as climate change, ship strikes, plastic pollution, and bycatch, Wreck Bay's protected status within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park provides a sanctuary for these gentle giants.