OVERVIEW
The Ganges River dolphin is a dolphin found exclusively in the freshwater rivers of Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. They can only live in freshwater and are effectively blind. They hunt by emitting ultrasonic sounds which bounce of off fish and other prey, allowing them to "see" an image in their mind in an almost radar-like fashion. Generally they are found alone or in small groups, with the mother and calf usually traveling together. Calves are a chocolate brown at birth, and as they grow their skin begins to turn to a grayish brown complexion. Female Ganges River dolphins are larger than males, and give birth once every two or three years to a single calf.
DID YOU KNOW?
- Ganges River dolphins will migrate into different areas of the river when flood season is in occurrence. At other times, they can be found closer to canals and other places where rivers adjoin.
- The Ganges River dolphin moves more slowly than other dolphins, often feeding from the bottom of their riverbeds.
- Ganges River dolphins are a bit more diverse in their diet than other river dolphins, eating catfish, carp, clams, turtles, and occasionally even birds.
- The Ganges River dolphin has been classified as endangered by the IUCN.
- The Ganges River dolphin's scientific name is Platanista gangetica gangetica.
