Saving and Not Saving Dolphins

Scientists report this week that after an intensive search of the Yangtze River in China, the freshwater dolphin, the Baiji, is now classified as extinct. This is the first species of cetacean, which includes whales, dolphins and porpoises, to disappear in our time. What's even worse is that this is due to man's destruction of the Baiji's habitat.

Find out more information about the Baiji at The Baiji.org Foundation.

Fortunately for two captive dolphins at the Royal Jidi Ocean World Aquarium in Liaoning Province in China, somebody's arms were long enough to save them. These dolphins ingested plastic from the edge of their pool and surgical instruments failed to be able to remove it from their stomachs. Caretakers attempting to reach down their throats discovered their arms were too short.

To the rescue came Bao Xishun, the world's tallest living man, who is 7' 9" with 41.7" arms. He was able to remove the dangerous pieces of plastic. The smaller ones left could be digested and not harm the animals.

If only someone with long arms could have saved the Baiji.