Irrawaddy Dolphins Swimming in the Mekong

The trademark curved mouth of the Irrawaddy dolphin led to the animal's nickname: the "smiling face of the Mekong." They travel in groups of no more than 10 and solitary dolphins are rarely seen. Unfortunately, populations of this rare species are shrinking. Dangerous fishing practices and habitat degradation from the development of dams, deforestation and mining are putting the future of Irrawaddy dolphins at great risk.