Irrawaddy Dolphins Spotted Near Rushikulya River Mouth, Odisha Highlights Biodiversity Hotspot

The Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha’s Ganjam district , already famous for the mass nesting of endangered Olive Ridley turtles , has now emerged as a potential habitat for the critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris). Forest officials reported that during a three-day survey from January 20 to 22 , a group of 13 dolphins was observed near Bateshwar , surfacing and moving in pods along the Purunabandh-Prayagi stretch , said Dibya Shankar Behera , Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), Khallikote range.

Irrawaddy dolphins are unique among dolphin species for their ability to thrive in both freshwater rivers and brackish estuaries . They are typically found across South and Southeast Asia, including the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers , the Ganges-Brahmaputra system , and coastal estuaries in India, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Indonesia. Previously observed in large numbers in Chilika Lake , the Odisha dolphins are believed to have migrated to the Rushikulya estuary, an area already known for its rich biodiversity, including migratory birds such as Bar-headed geese .

The presence of Irrawaddy dolphins emphasizes the ecological significance of the estuary. Local communities, particularly fishermen, who have long protected Olive Ridley turtles during their mass nesting season, are now becoming aware of the need to safeguard other aquatic species. Awareness programmes are being implemented to encourage the protection of both dolphins and birds in the region.

Wildlife activist Rabindra Nath Sahu stressed that the sighting reinforces Rushikulya’s status as a biodiversity hotspot and urged the government to undertake urgent conservation measures. With threats like habitat degradation, fishing nets, and pollution impacting dolphin populations elsewhere, safeguarding estuarine and riverine ecosystems remains crucial for the survival of this critically endangered species .

The Rushikulya river mouth, with its combination of Olive Ridley turtle rookery, migratory birds, and now Irrawaddy dolphins , continues to stand out as one of Odisha’s most ecologically significant zones, highlighting the need for integrated conservation efforts.