PHNOM PENH, May 2, 2024 — A newborn dolphin calf has been spotted in Kratie Province, marking the eighth such sighting in Cambodia this year, according to a news release from the Fisheries Administration of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) on Wednesday.

The calf was seen swimming alongside two adult dolphins at 9:10 AM on May 1 at the Kampi pool in Kampi village, Sambok commune, Chetr Borei district. The sighting was made by a research team from the Fisheries Administration and WWF-Cambodia.

This addition follows last year’s count of eight dolphin calves, showing a consistent rise from six calves recorded in both 2022 and 2021.

The Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris), recognized as a natural treasure in Cambodia, are fully protected under the Kingdom’s Fisheries Law. These dolphins are classified as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List, representing the highest threat level for endangered species.

WWF-Cambodia notes that the presence of dolphins in the Mekong River signals a healthy aquatic environment, highlighting robust fisheries, biodiversity, and ecosystems that are essential for the region's ecological health and community well-being.