Irrawaddy dolphin

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Irrawaddy dolphin
How does a dolphin protect itself?


Dolphins swim in groups of about 12 called pods, and one of the purposes of this group is to protect the other members of the pod. When attacked, dolphins will use their speed and agility to fend off predators. ... Dolphins are fast so they can swim away from danger.
How many Irrawaddy dolphins are left in the world? 
In the Mekong there are likely between 78 and 91 individual dolphins left. The Mekong River population is listed as Critically Endangered. The WWF (World Wildlife Fund) has identified Irrawaddy river dolphins as a “flagship species” — which means that they reflect the health of the river for other species.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
 In terms of appearance they share features that are visually similar to the beluga whale although they are genetically closer related to the Orca species. These dolphins are a gray to dark blue color with a lighter colored stomach and front. They have a large forehead and rounded skull which lacks the appearance of a snout or beak. The dorsal fin is rounded and located around the middle of its back. They also have long-broad flippers. In terms of size these dolphins can weigh up to 300 pounds and grow to 7 – 8 ft. in length on average.
SOCIAL STRUCTURE
These dolphins communicate using a series of clicks and buzzing sounds that allow these dolphins to talk to one another and determine which one in the group is communicating. In most cases they prefer to travel in small pods consisting of 3 – 6 dolphins although their pod size may increase to include 15 or more dolphins on occasion. While in their pods they remain social with one another and may occasionally intermingle with other pods. These dolphins are not the type to bring attention to themselves as they are rarely seen splashing, rolling and slapping their fins against the water. Other activities occasionally observed include spitting water, spy hopping and blowing bubbles. Generally when in search of food they will dive for 1 – 2 minutes, however they have been observed holding their breath for up to 12 minutes (possibly longer) when necessary. When they need to surface for air they keep a low profile only exposing the top of their head and their blowhole.
Can anyone remember what the tail on a dolphin is called?
What is the diet of the Irrawaddy dolphin? 

Feeding together in groups of usually less than six, but as many as 15 (5), the Irrawaddy dolphin can dive for up to 12 minutes to feed on bony fish, crustaceans, cephalopods and fish eggs.
Where do they live?
The Irrawaddy dolphin (aka the Mekong or Mahakam River dolphin) can be found swimming in parts of the Bay of Bengal, Southeast Asia, Philippines and Papua New Guinea.
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