PATTAYA, THAILAND – Marine researchers documented a rare group of more than 40 Irrawaddy dolphins off Thailand’s coast, prompting authorities to roll out a high-tech protection plan.
Large pod discovered off Bang Pakong estuary
During a systematic survey from 12 to 16 January, researchers observed an estimated 35 to 40 Irrawaddy dolphins at the mouth of the Bang Pakong River. The endangered animals displayed group feeding behaviour, and between 5 and 18 individuals also showed courtship and reproductive behaviour.
“This is a very positive sign for the state of the coastal ecosystem,”
said Dr. Pinsak Suraswadi, Director-General of the Marine Department.
High-tech ‘pingers’ and drones to prevent bycatch
The greatest threat to the dolphins came from fishing nets in which they became entangled and drowned, according to the authorities. To counter this, new acoustic warning devices known as “pingers” were being deployed, operating at frequencies between 50–120 kHz to keep dolphins away from nets, with the first reactions of the animals currently under evaluation. In addition, drones monitored the pod around the clock to track their movements and behaviour patterns.
Microplastics and water quality under investigation
Alongside dolphin monitoring, a large environmental study was under way, with water and sediment samples taken at six river mouths from Bangkok to Phetchaburi. The study aimed to assess contamination by microplastics and overall water quality, and initial results were reported as surprisingly positive. Most areas met national standards for aquaculture and recreational use, while only the Tha Chin River estuary showed oxygen levels that were too low.
Why the sighting matters for conservation
The Irrawaddy dolphin was listed as endangered on the Red List, making each individual animal highly valuable for conservation. A pod of this size was described as a sensation, suggesting that protection measures in recent years might already be bearing fruit by ensuring suitable habitats and sufficient food. The data collected were considered crucial for long-term, sustainable protection planning, helping authorities to position protected zones more precisely.
Next steps for Thai authorities
Officials stated they would closely monitor the area and expand testing of acoustic deterrent devices at high-risk sites. At the same time, the problem of low oxygen levels in the Tha Chin River was being investigated in detail to identify and resolve the underlying causes. The discovery was viewed as a major success, but authorities stressed that intensive work would still be needed to secure the dolphins’ habitat on a permanent basis.