The Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) was once overexploited through whaling. Numbers are now on the rise – although recovery is slow, and the species remains listed as 'vulnerable'. It is, however, the most common whale species in Australian waters. The Humpback makes annual migrations between Antarctica and the waters of northern Australia, travelling ocean highways that hug the continent’s east and west coasts. The Humpback is a majestic animal that astounds those who witness its dynamic displays of breaching, lob tailing and spy hopping, and mystifies all with its complex and beautifully haunting song cycles.