Cambodia Records Newborn Irrawaddy dolphins, Total Reaches 117

Cambodia Records Newborn Irrawaddy dolphins, Total Reaches 117

KRATIE, April 5, 2026 — A newborn Irrawaddy dolphin has been spotted in Cambodia’s Mekong River, raising the country’s dolphin population to 117, authorities said, in a boost to conservation efforts for the endangered species.

The calf was discovered on March 31 in the Kampi dolphin pool in Kratie province by a joint research team from Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration and the WWF.

Estimated to be about three days old and in good health, the calf was observed swimming alongside a group of five adult dolphins and under the care of a mature dolphin identified by researchers as code number 21.

Officials said the sighting marks the fifth dolphin calf recorded in Cambodia since the start of 2026.

The Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries said the protection and conservation of Mekong dolphins remains a top priority, describing the species as a “living national treasure” with significant ecological and tourism value.

Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong are critically endangered, with their habitat largely confined to a stretch of river in northeastern Cambodia.

Authorities said they are working with local communities, fisheries groups and conservation partners to crack down on illegal fishing and other threats in a bid to ensure the species’ long-term survival.

Conservationists say the steady increase in dolphin births in recent years reflects ongoing efforts to protect the population, though challenges remain in safeguarding the fragile river ecosystem.