When people think of dolphins, they usually picture playful, sleek creatures enjoying warm, clean ocean waters. However, many people do not realize that several of these mammalian species are endangered. Recognizing the problem and understanding more about the species can lead to better protection efforts in the future.
Irrawaddy Dolphin
The Irrawaddy dolphin is a species that is closely related to orca whales. There are many different Irrawaddy subspecies, and many of these breeds live in rivers or estuaries near Southeast Asia. Some Irrawaddy subspecies are in no danger, but many, including the Mekong River Irrawaddy, the Mahakam Sound Irrawaddy and the Ayeyarwady River Irrawaddy are critically endangered. Some of these populations have less than 100 members. Most of the decline of this species can be attributed to habitat loss and fishing net accidents.
South Asian River Dolphin
Another endangered species is the South Asian river dolphin. This species is a freshwater breed and lives in rivers in Nepal, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. These odd creatures are mostly blind and rely on echolocation to navigate through their habitats. In addition, they swim on their sides in order to catch food more efficiently. This species has experienced a decline due to habitat destruction and loss of river depth, which makes it difficult for the animals to swim.
Maui’s Dolphin
Maui’s dolphin is one of the smallest breeds, and also one of the most endangered. This species, which is found around the North Island of New Zealand, only grows to about five feet long. Because they are continually caught and killed in fishing nets, only about 100 members of this species are alive. New fishing net regulations, however, should help to decrease these fatal accidents.
Baiji Dolphin
The Baiji is one of the most interesting species. It is a freshwater species that lives in the Yangtze River of China. Pollution caused a steep decline in the population of these animals. Conservation efforts largely failed, and the species was declared functionally extinct, although undocumented sightings still occur. Today, although it may be too late for the Baiji, more care is taken to protect the Yangtze River habitat.
Eastern Taiwan Strait Humpback Dolphin
Another critically endangered species is the Eastern Taiwan Strait humpback dolphin, a subspecies of the Indo-Pacific humpback. This species is colored in white, pinks and grays, giving it a unique appearance. This species is threatened due to fishing nets, pollution and loss of habitat. Now, only about 100 of these beautiful creatures live in the wild.
