More than 70 Irrawaddy dolphins were seen during a survey conducted along Irrawaddy River from Mandalay to Bhamo, according to the dolphin conservation team.

The survey on the Irrawaddy dolphin population is usually conducted along the Irrawaddy River in February every year when the water recedes.

Win Han, an in-charge of dolphin conservation team said, “A total of 72 Irrawaddy dolphins were spotted during the 10-day survey was conducted from February 6 to 16, 2019. The dolphin death rate has declined slightly. A total of seven Irrawaddy dolphins were reported dead between the two surveys. Four or five baby dolphins were spotted.”

A total of 76 Irrawaddy dolphins—26 between Mandalay and Kyaukmyaung, 37 between Malae and Shweku Townships and 13 in Bhamo Township, were recorded last  year.

According to the records, six dolphins died in 2018 and one in January, 2019. Most of dolphin death cases are linked to human-induced cases and electro fishing.