Ruben Hanssen · Unsplash Amazon river dolphin
Inia geoffrensis
The largest river dolphin in the world, and the only one that turns pink with age. It can rotate its head 180° to navigate through flooded forest roots.
At a glance
Size 1.8–2.7m; 85–185kg
Diet Fish, river turtles, crabs
Active Dawn (05–07), Day (07–17), Dusk (17–19)
Layer River
How to spot it
Watch calm river bends at dawn. Look for the small dorsal ridge and pink colouring.
Threats and conservation
Amazon river dolphin is listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List (assessed 2018). This section will include sourced information on threats, population trends and active conservation programmes after expert review.
Watching responsibly
- Keep a safe distance. Do not approach to get a closer look or photograph.
- Look, listen, wait. Passive observation causes the least disturbance.
- Never feed, bait, call to or touch this animal.
- Follow all local park and reserve rules.
- Go with a qualified, locally-licensed guide whenever possible.
Sources
Conservation status: IUCN Red List Red List. Assessment year: 2018. Full sources will be listed here after expert review. Last checked: 2026-10-11.
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