AKP Phnom Penh, December 02, 2025 --

A newborn Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin calf was spotted on Dec. 1 in Kratie province by the research and patrol team of the Fisheries Administration of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and WWF-Cambodia.

According to a MAFF news release issued at around noon today, this is the eighth dolphin calf recorded in Cambodia this year.

The one-day-old calf was sighted at 3:40 p.m. in the Kampi pool, located in Kampi village, Sambok commune, Chetr Borei district. It appeared to be in good health and was seen swimming alongside its mother, identified as dolphin No. 138, as well as four other adult dolphins.

The ministry noted that 2025 marks the first year in Cambodia’s history with zero dolphin deaths for a full year and 18 days, from Nov. 13, 2024, to Dec. 1, 2025. With this new addition, the total number of Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins in Cambodia has risen to 112.

Last year, Cambodia recorded nine newborn dolphins, the highest figure in the past four years. In 2023, eight calves were born, following six each in 2022 and 2021.

The Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris), considered a living natural treasure of Cambodia, is fully protected under the Kingdom’s Fisheries Law. The species is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

WWF-Cambodia reaffirmed that the presence of dolphins in the Mekong River reflects healthy fisheries, healthy river systems, and rich biodiversity that supports the livelihoods of local communities.

By C. Nika