Four Dolphin Deaths At Chilika In 2019 Worry Nature Lovers, Authorities

Brahmagiri: The death of four rare Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) in January and February is worrying environmentalists, forest department officials and nature lovers alike. Tourists throng Chilika to watch these aquatic animals and migratory birds.

The carcass of a rare Irrawaddy dolphin was found at Ghatapentha in Puri district as late as on February 24. Wildlife experts said water pollution and operation of motorised boats in the water are to blame for these dolphin deaths while the Brahmagiri additional veterinary doctor said pneumonia could be to blame. The Satapada Range Officer said steps will be taken after seeing post-mortem reports.

A census conducted last month had put the number of dolphins in Chilika at 113. The report released on February 21 reported a sharp decline in the dolphin population in Chilika’s Satapada this year. In fact, its numbers had dipped across Odisha, from 469 in 2018 to 259 now.

Three types of dolphins are sighted in Odisha – Irrawaddy (130), Bottle Nose (16) and Humpback (116). Irrawaddy dolphins are found in the brackish waters of Chilika and at river mouths.