Songkhla: The Marine Department is actively monitoring Irrawaddy dolphins in Songkhla Lake as water levels have risen significantly due to recent flooding in southern Thailand. The abnormal increase of 2-3 meters in water levels poses a threat to these dolphins, potentially causing them to venture into shallow waters south of the big island, leading to possible strandings.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Pinsak Suraswadi, Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, reported that officials are utilizing drones to assess the water situation in Songkhla Lake. They discovered that the water level in the upper part of the lake had surged from an average of approximately 2.8 meters to between 4-6 meters in some areas. This change in water depth allows Irrawaddy dolphins to explore beyond their typical feeding grounds but increases the risk of them entering unfamiliar shallow waters, raising concerns about potential strandings. Officials have been tasked with closely monitoring areas with frequent dolphin sightings and regions where water levels have fluctuated unusually.
In the event of any unusual dolphin behavior or strandings, the department is prepared to initiate immediate assistance under the emergency response system. This involves coordinating with local networks to provide timely aid to these rare marine animals. The latest survey in 2025 revealed that the population of Irrawaddy dolphins in Songkhla Lake is critically low, with only about 17 individuals remaining.
The Irrawaddy dolphin, known scientifically as Orcaella brevirostris, is a rare and vulnerable species sensitive to environmental changes. It is protected under Thai law as a “protected wild animal” according to the Wild Animal Reservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562 (2019). Additionally, it is listed on Appendix I of the Convention on the Protection of Animals (CITES), classifying it as critically endangered and prohibiting international trade for commercial purposes.
These efforts are in line with directives from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Suchart Chomklin. Expressing concern for marine resources and rare marine animals amid the flooding, he urged the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to expedite surveys and impact assessments while also ensuring the welfare of affected residents until the situation improves.