PHNOM PENH: A new baby dolphin was spotted by the Fisheries Administration in Kratie province, and is believed to have been born around the same time a new sub-decree was signed on the establishment of the Mekong River Dolphin Management Area approved by Prime Minister Hun Sen.

The Fisheries Administration of the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), conducted a census of Mekong river dolphins on Wednesday, 1 March 2023, and spotted a newborn baby dolphin among a herd of seven or eight, at the Anlong Kampi Conservation Area in Kampi village, Sambok commune, Chit Borey district, Kratie province.

Experts have determined that this baby dolphin was likely born around 27-28 February, weighs around nine or 10 kilograms, is one meter in length and very healthy.

According to the river guard and other reported sightings of boat owners, another baby dolphin is believed to have been born in early February 2023, however, the Fisheries Administration team have not yet been able to spot and capture the dolphin on camera.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has stated that it will continue to strengthen patrols, disseminate information on the protection of dolphins, and crack down and move fishermen who use nets or fishing rods in the dolphin conservation area, as these types of fishing gear have caused the death of numerous dolphins.

Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a sub-decree on 27 February 2023 defining the boundaries of the Mekong River Dolphin Management Area to protect and conserve the endangered dolphins of the Mekong. The river dolphins are considered a sacred natural treasure that must be preserved to maintain the natural biodiversity of the river ecosystem, and which also provide an avenue for tourism and socio-economic development, supporting the livelihoods of people who live by the river.