March to June
One night each March, under the silver light of a full moon, the waters of the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef in the Coral Coast region literally come alive as more than 200 species of corals spawn. The drifting waters are filled with brightly coloured polyps, laying the foundations for a dramatic change in the reef life over the following months.
The coral spawn is the first stage in a remarkable chain of events that sees the reef rejuvenated for another season, as nature unfolds its annual undersea drama.
Over the following months, krill and other tiny sealife swarm on the reef to feast on the corals, drawing in larger fish including the graceful and gentle giants of the sea - whale sharks.
These magnificent creatures can grow up to an astonishing 16 metres long and weigh 30 tonnes or more, and spend their days basking along the reef, feasting on fattened krill.
Scuba divers and snorkellers can dive on the reef during the spawn, or swim among the whale sharks, to enjoy what is often described as a life-changing experience.
For more information on whale sharks, have a look at our suggested Animal Interaction itinierary.