Two New Dolphin Calves Spotted, but One Dies

Two new dolphin calves have been recorded in Stung Treng and Kratie provinces by research teams of the Fisheries Administration and WWF-Cambodia, but unfortunately one has died, said the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) in a recent news release. According to the source, the first newborn was spotted on Mar. 22 swimming along in a herd of six other dolphins in Kaing Kaunsat pool located in Koh Preah village, Koh Preah commune, Siem Bok district, Stung Treng province. On the same day, another dolphin calf was found, but already dead in Prek Prasab district, Kratie province, some 10 kilometres from Kampi pool. The dead dolphin is 1.06 metres long and weighs 11 kilogrammes. It is estimated to be around one or two days old. A preliminary investigation into the death of the dolphin indicates that the newborn could have been abused by adult dolphins, but the research team will continue the investigation to find the exact cause of death. As of Mar. 23, Cambodia registered five new dolphin c alves and two deaths. Last year, eight dolphin calves were counted, up from six each in 2022 and 2021. The Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) are a living natural treasure of Cambodia and are fully protected under the Kingdom's Fisheries Law. The population is ranked as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List, the highest international threat ranking for endangered species. According to WWF-Cambodia, the presence of the dolphin in the Mekong is an indication of healthy fisheries and healthy rivers, including biodiversity and natural ecosystems that provide life-support services for people. Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse