Bolivian river dolphin
Quick Summary
The Bolivian river dolphin (Inia boliviensis) is a species of freshwater dolphin found in remote streams of the Bolivian Amazon. It is a mammal related to whales and is distinguished by its long beak and rounded forehead, differing from more common dolphin species.12
These dolphins are not as agile as other dolphins and spend much of their time at river bottoms, using their sensitive snouts and sonar to find food in murky waters. The Bolivian river dolphin is slightly smaller than the Amazon river dolphin and has grayish-pink skin. Population estimates suggest there may be as many as 25,000 individuals.1
River dolphins, in general, are often curious and friendly toward humans. However, several species, including the Ganges and Indus river dolphins, are endangered due to factors like industrial river traffic, hunting, and dam construction.13
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