AKP Kratie, February 26, 2025 --

A newborn Irrawaddy dolphin, estimated to be about two days old, was spotted in the Mekong River on Feb. 25, at around 10:30 AM. 

The discovery was made by researchers from the Fisheries Administration and WWF-Cambodia in the stretch between Kampi and Chroy Banteay, located in Sambok village, Sambok commune, Chetr Borei district, Kratie province.

The calf was seen swimming among a herd of seven adult dolphins. 

This marks the fourth Irrawaddy dolphin birth recorded in Cambodia’s Mekong River since the beginning of 2025, signaling hope for the conservation of this critically endangered species.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries expressed gratitude to local river guards, authorities, and community members for their ongoing efforts to protect and preserve Cambodia’s precious aquatic resources.

As of early 2025, there are at least 105 Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins in Cambodia. 

Last year, the Kingdom registered nine newborns, the highest number in the past four year. In 2023, eight dolphin calves were born, 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 dolphins in the Mekong is an indication of healthy fisheries and healthy rivers, including biodiversity and natural ecosystems that provide life-support services for people.

By K. Rithy Reak