Newborn dolphin spotted in Cambodia’s Mekong conservation zone

PHNOM PENH, March 22, 2026 (KPT) — A newborn dolphin has been sighted at the Kampi pool in Kratie province, marking another boost for Cambodia’s freshwater dolphin conservation efforts, officials said.

The calf was discovered on March 18 at around 2:30 p.m. by a joint research team from the Fisheries Administration, the Kratie Fisheries Administration Cantonment and WWF. Estimated to be about two days old, the dolphin appeared healthy and was seen swimming with five adults.

It is the third calf recorded in early 2026, underscoring conservation progress in the Mekong River. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries praised river guards, local authorities and communities for their role in protecting the country’s aquatic resources.

Around 80 dolphins are believed to inhabit Kratie province, where an 85-kilometer conservation zone has been established along the Mekong. The protected area includes 62 deep pools that serve as critical habitats for dolphins and breeding grounds for fish.

During the dry season, dolphins gather in five main pools, including the well-known Kampi Dolphin Pool, which draws thousands of domestic and international tourists each year.