Survey on population of Irrawaddy dolphins to be performed in February

Mandalay February 1

With the aim of developing ecotourism service businesses, a survey to collect population of Irrawaddy dolphins will be conducted in February by the Fisheries Department in cooperation with Wildlife Conservation Society, an official reported.

The two-week survey is scheduled to be started on 15 February along the Ayeyawady River. During the up-and-down trip, the team comprising members of the WCS will spread their knowledge on conserving natural environment and the importance factors of protecting population of Irrawaddy dolphins.

“Observation of Irrawaddy dolphins along the river attracts many international visitors,” said an official. “Up to 1,000 tourists normally visit the area to observe the dolphins from September to April each year.”

Currently, there are six villages—Hsingyun, Agyun, Selthe, Myitkangyi, Myaeson and Seinpangon which have been recognized as fishing areas with the help of dolphins. Those villages are situated within the Irrawaddy dolphins conservation area.

Currently, there are 24 dolphins within the conservation area and 58 dolphins along Mandalay-Bhamo watercourse. It is estimated that population of dolphins along Katha-Bhamo watercourse is likely to decrease during these years.

Yadanarpondaily