Baiji

The Baiji, also known as the Chinese River Dolphin, was a freshwater dolphin species native to the Yangtze River in China. It was a graceful and beautiful creature, with a long, slender snout and a pale gray or white coloration.

The Baiji was an incredibly ancient species, and it was considered a living fossil. It was a vital part of the Yangtze River ecosystem, but its numbers began to decline rapidly in the 20th century due to pollution, boat traffic, and fishing. In 2006, an extensive survey failed to find any living individuals, and the Baiji was declared functionally extinct. Its tragic decline is a stark reminder of the impact of human activity on our planet.

Baiji

Baiji

Classification

Mammalia > Cetacea > Lipotidae > Lipotes > L. vexillifer

Native To

Conservation Status

Average Height

6 - 8 feet
(1.8 - 2.4 m)

Average Weight

200 - 300 lbs
(90 - 136 kg)

Average Life Span

20 - 25 years

Gestation Period

300 - 360 days

Diet

Carnivore (fish)

Social Structure

Pod

Did You Know?

The Baiji, also known as the Yangtze River Dolphin, was a freshwater dolphin species native to the Yangtze River in China.

Sadly, the Baiji is considered functionally extinct, meaning there are no longer enough individuals to sustain the population.

They had long, narrow beaks and a distinctive melon-shaped forehead.

The Baiji was known for its excellent hearing, which it used to navigate and hunt in the murky waters of the Yangtze River.

Historical records suggest the Baiji had been living in the Yangtze River for at least 20 million years.

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