Making its home off the coasts of Australasia and southern Asia, the Irrawaddy Dolphin was first recognized in the 1860's by Sir Richard Owen. Mainly its skull identifies the species, which is large in relation to the body. The Irrawaddy Dolphin's traits are the small, slightly curved dorsal fin, a long tapered body, an oversized head which contains a small "blowhole" which is off centered to the left, and long flippers.
The adult Irrawaddy Dolphin can range in size from 2.15 meters to 2.75 meters and can weigh anywhere from 95 to 155 pounds. The Irrawaddy can move its head freely due to the fact that only two of the vertebrae of the mammal are fused. The jaws of the Irrawaddy contain 15 to 20 pairs of teeth, both upper and lower.
The Irrawaddy Dolphins remain in pods of 6 to 15 dolphins, mainly consisting of immediately family. These dolphins will remain in these groups for the majority of their life except during breeding season when the males will travel and inhabit neighboring pods to mate. At times, the females from the neighboring pods will return to the males' family pod after mating and may remain with her new family.
Irrawaddy Dolphins have been known to live as long as 30 years, although a few have been dated in their 40s. The current population of the Irrawaddy is unknown, but for the locals of the Australasia and Southern Asia they are considered "common." The Irrawaddy Dolphins are considered quite approachable and tame, and thrive well in captivity. However, there are several occasions where Irrawaddy have beached themselves attempting to approach humans so it is suggested that viewing them from a distance is safer for this beautiful mammal.
The Irrawaddy is a slow swimming, placid mammal, and these traits could possibly lead to their endangerment. Although they are considered a "sacred animal" by Vietnamese and Kampuchea fishermen, there are a few areas where the Irrawaddy is hunted for food and fuel. Also, due to their slow movements, the Irrawaddy may become trapped in fishing nets while attempting to hunt for food, become entangled and die.
The Irrawaddy has been observed tail slapping, spyhopping, and leaping out of the water just as other species. Even though these behaviors are not completely understood, it is a very beautiful thing to see....
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