Securing a future for river dolphins

Freshwater dolphins are charismatic, iconic – and facing extinction. Find out why they’re in danger, and what we’re doing to turn the tide

07 February 2024

Across Asia and South America, all six species of river dolphins are clinging to survival.

These freshwater cetaceans are top predators, helping to maintain healthy populations of other river species, but they’re powerless against pollution, dams and becoming accidentally trapped in fishing nets.

In Indonesia, just 67 Irrawaddy dolphins are known to live in the Mahakam river, while the Yangtze river dolphin was declared possibly extinct in 2007.

Our video highlights each species and their habitats, and shows how we’re helping to protect these amazing animals and their homes.

Watch: River dolphins around the world

BANNER IMAGE © WWF-PAKISTAN

Help protect river dolphins

Donate today to support our work developing sustainable fishing practices that will help keep river dolphins safe.

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