(Kratie): A newborn Mekong River dolphin calf was spotted on 27 April 2026, at the Kampi dolphin pool in Kampi village, Sambok commune, Chitr Borei district, Kratie province.

The calf was first observed at approximately 3:20 p.m. by a media production team from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Its presence was later confirmed by experts from the Fisheries Administration, the Kratie Fisheries Administration Cantonment, and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

Estimated to be around three days old, the calf appeared healthy and was seen swimming alongside a group of about six adult dolphins.

This discovery marks the sixth dolphin calf recorded in early 2026, bringing Cambodia’s total Mekong River dolphin population to 118.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries expressed gratitude to river guards, local authorities, and community members for their continued efforts in protecting this rare species. Officials emphasized that strong collaboration between government agencies, conservation partners, and local communities has been key to the population’s steady growth.

Despite this progress, the ministry urged fishermen and the public to remain vigilant. Protecting river habitats and following the guidance of river guards are essential steps to safeguard dolphins.

Authorities stressed that public cooperation remains critical to ensuring the survival of these calves and the long-term future of Mekong River dolphins. Anyone who encounters dolphins, particularly calves, is encouraged to report sightings to fisheries authorities via the following numbers: 012 897 943, 011 355 883, 099 791 919, 092 918 144, and 017 818 382.
=FRESH NEWS