This short eLearning course introduces the fundamentals of identifying dolphins and whales in Australian waters, with a focus on species commonly encountered along the east coast.

Whether you are a citizen scientist, marine enthusiast, or participating in an East Coast Dolphin Watch Citizen Science survey, accurate species identification is a critical skill that supports meaningful data collection and conservation outcomes.

In this course, you will learn how to distinguish between major groups of cetaceans, recognise key physical features, and apply practical techniques for identifying species both at sea and from land.

By the end of this course, you will have the confidence to:

• Differentiate between dolphins and whales
• Identify common Australian cetacean species
• Recognise key field identification features (e.g. dorsal fins, body shape, behaviour)
• Apply observation techniques used in citizen science programs

This course is suitable for beginners through to intermediate participants and is designed to support real-world observations and data collection.