Cambodia has recorded the birth of nine rare Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin calves in 2024, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The latest calf was spotted on November 8 at the Kampi dolphin pool in Kratie province, where researchers observed the newborn swimming alongside two adult dolphins. Despite the joy of these births, the year has also seen the loss of three calves.

The critically endangered Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins, listed as such by the International Union for Conservation of Nature since 2004, face ongoing survival challenges. The estimated population of 105 dolphins inhabits the 180-kilometer stretch of the Mekong River through Stung Treng and Kratie provinces, making these new births a hopeful sign for their conservation.

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