The Yangtze River Dolphin, also known as the baiji dolphin, is a freshwater species that once inhabited the Yangtze River in Central China. Recent evidence suggests that its population declined dramatically in the late 20th century. Although the most recent survey from 2016 estimated that there were just 11 of the animals still in existence, some experts believe that the species is now extinct.
The baiji dolphin was once abundant in the Yangtze River, with as many as 6,000 living in the mid 1940s. Unfortunately, several factors combined to reduce their numbers drastically, including overfishing, pollution, boat traffic, and construction of hydroelectric dams. Despite efforts to save the species, the WWF declared it functionally extinct in 2006, meaning that even if some animals had survived, their numbers were too low to sustain their population.
Since 2006, several attempts have been made to find a remaining population of baiji dolphins. In 2006, a two-month survey by the Chinese government found no remaining dolphins in the upper and middle parts of the Yangtze River, although some were believed to still exist in the southwest parts of the river near the city of Chongqing. However, a 2007 survey failed to locate any surviving baijis, and by 2016 only 11 individuals were estimated to remain.
Given their relatively small numbers and the difficulties of locating them, it is likely that the baiji dolphin has now become extinct in the Yangtze River. Experts warn that this is representative of the ongoing environmental crisis in China and other parts of the world and it serves as a stark warning to take greater care of our natural environments and the species that inhabit them.
The loss of the baiji dolphin is an example of a phenomenon known as ‘extinction spasm’, a sudden and rapid extinction of a species usually due to human activity. It is estimated that around 150 species go extinct across the world every day, with many of them lost due to the destruction of their habitats. Human activities such as cutting down forests, overfishing, burning fossil fuels and polluting waterways are all making dangerous changes to our planet, and it is the species like the baiji which pay the ultimate price.
The loss of the baiji dolphin is an important reminder of the fragility of our ecosystem, and of our responsibility to protect the species that inhabit it. If we are to avoid the extinction of more species in future, we must strive to reduce our environmental impact and work together to create a more sustainable future.
Climate Crisis
Experts have been warning of the dangers of climate change for many years now, but unfortunately, their predictions appear to be coming true. As the climate undergoes drastic changes, habitats across the world are threatened, and species are struggling to survive. Changes in temperature, rainfall and water levels are having a devastating effect on species’ habitats, leading to population declines and reduced genetic diversity.
Climate change is likely to be the greatest threat to species in the coming years, and if we are to protect them, we must address the root cause – our own actions. The burning of fossil fuels, industrial processes and land use change all contribute to global warming, and we must strive to reduce these activities if we are to protect our planet.
Fortunately, there are steps we can take to make a positive difference. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are becoming increasingly economically viable and offer a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Reducing plastics and waste, avoiding animal products and driving electric cars are also major contributing factors.
Of course, it is also important to raise awareness of the issue and lobby governments to take action. We must also be mindful of our own personal impact, and strive to live a sustainable lifestyle.
Conservation Efforts
Fortunately, there are many inspiring examples of conservation success stories, and there is still hope for species on the brink of extinction. Conservation groups and charities are working hard to save these species, developing captive breeding and release programmes, habitat restoration and monitoring systems, and raising awareness of their plight.
For example, the Giant Panda was at risk of extinction in the mid 20th century, but thanks to the efforts of conservationists and local communities, the species’ population has now recovered and is being monitored by the WWF. The conservation of the Giant Panda is an inspiring example of what can be achieved when people work together to protect a species.
Similarly, the Humpback whale was facing drastic population reductions due to whaling, but thanks to the efforts of the International Whaling Commission and its ban on commercial whaling, the species is now on the way to recovery.
These success stories demonstrate that conservation efforts can make a real difference, and provide hope for the future.
Education
Conservation efforts are not just about protecting a species from extinction, it is also about imparting knowledge so that we can work together to ensure their survival. Education is key to this effort, and education programmes must reach a wide range of populations.
Educating children about the environment is essential, as they are the future champions of conservation. Schools can teach children about the importance of biodiversity and sustainability, and encourage them to engage with nature. Providing opportunities for children to experience the outdoors and explore nature first-hand is another powerful way to enhance their understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
Adults too, must also be aware of their environmental impact and engage with conservation efforts. Governments, businesses and individuals have a responsibility to reduce their environmental impact, and this requires a collective effort. Through education, we can strive to make our world a more sustainable and biodiverse place.
Action
It may seem like an insurmountable task, but with the right strategies and coordinated effort, we can successfully protect and conserve our planet’s species. This requires us all to take action – governments to implement viable environmental policies, businesses to reduce their environmental impact, and individuals to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Every individual can make a difference and there are plenty of opportunities for us to engage with conservation efforts. Whether it is choosing to avoid animal products, reducing our use of plastics and other unsustainable materials, investing in green energy, or just taking the time to appreciate the natural world, we can all be part of creating a more sustainable and biodiverse future.
The Yangtze River Dolphin may now be extinct, but it has left us with an important lesson – that the environment is fragile, and that we have a responsibility to protect it. We must take action to ensure that we do not lose any more species, and strive for a more sustainable future.
