Dolphin populations in Saptakoshi River are increasing

This year, there are more dolphins in the Saptakoshi River, which is a component of Koshi Wildlife Reserve. On the occasion of World Environment Day, the results of the four-day aquatic animal census were released on Thursday, June 5. According to some reports, the number rose by three this year in comparison to last year. The most recent census indicates that there are 15 adult dolphins, five semi-adult dolphins, and two baby dolphins, for a total of 22 dolphins, according to Reserve senior conservation officer Bhupendra Prasad Yadav. The increase in the animal’s population is considered a good sign for its conservation.
The Gangetic dolphin, a rare species of dolphin, lives in the Saptakoshi River. Dolphins are extremely clever aquatic mammals that favor deep, clear waters. Dolphin conservation became a top priority for the Reserve after the number of dolphins in the Saptakoshi River increased from 11 in 2012 to 17 in 2017. In the largest river in the nation, 19 dolphins were found at the most recent census in 2024.