Irrawaddy dolphins are found in Southeast Asia, most often in mangrove areas or estuaries. Some irrawaddy dolphins can also be found in river systems. They were once thought to be depleted.The New York Times: Asian Dolphin Less Rare Than Thought (March 31, 2009)
In 2009, a study was published that detailed the population of irrawaddy dolphins in an area of Bangladesh, where the largest population of the dolphins are thought to live.The New York Times: Asian Dolphin Less Rare Than Thought (March 31, 2009)
Population
A population of about 6,000 dolphins were found in Bangladesh after the dolphins were thought to be depleted. Previously known populations are around 100 or less. Climate change and fishing threatens the newly found population in Bangladesh. In 2008, they were listed as vulnerable in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's red list of endangered speciesThe Guardian: Thousands of rare Irrawaddy dolphins found along Bangladesh coast (April 1, 2009).
References
Fast Facts
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Scientific name
Orcaella brevirostris
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Color
Grey/blue
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Found in Southeast Asia and AustraliaWWF: Irrawaddy Dolphin
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Found in mangrove areas, estuaries and river systemsWWF: Irrawaddy Dolphin
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Length
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Weight
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Breathes in intervals of 70-150 seconds or less when divingWWF: Irrawaddy Dolphin
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