The Future of Pink Dolphins: The Sousa Chinensis of Taiwan

The Sousa Chinensis, or "Pink dolphins", of Taiwan are the most critically endangered population of Sousa dolphins found in small groups in and around the coasts of Southeast Asia. When this unique band was first discovered by Canadian-Taiwanese biologist Dr. John Wang in 2002, their numbers were already dangerously low, but are now estimated at no more than 99 to 120 individuals.

Fishing, land reclamation, pollution and instances of dolphin meat showing up on menus and market stands in West Taiwan, have all contributed to the critical situation facing these pink-hued mammals.

The first to begin tackling these issues, Dr. Wang is now leading researchers and PhD. Students from around Canada on trips to the west coast of Taiwan. Documenting, cataloging and tracking the remaining individuals for the better part of a decade, their work has, in turn, helped place the population on the critically endangered list, offering greater visibility and more sustained protection.

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• pink dolphin
• Taiwan
• endangered
• Sousa Chinensis
• Dr. John Wang
• Canadian Geographic
• fish market
• dolphin
• photography
• Jamie MacDonald
• Graham Lanktree