Dolphin Population rises to 152 in Chilika Lake

TNI Bureau: In a huge relief to the government, the Irrawaddy dolphin population inside the Chilika Lake, Odisha, has gone up to 152 as compared to last year’s 145. 118 out of those are adults, while 18 are calves and neonates. 16 are sub-adults.

The dolphin population has witnessed a 4.6% increase over the last year. During last year’s count, 11 dolphins were calves and neonates. But, this time around, the number has gone up to 18, which is a welcome sign.

The Irrawaddy dolphin population in the world stands at 7,500. Out of these, Bangladesh has 6,400. However, if only the lakes are taken into consideration, Chilila leads the count.