The Yangtze river dolphin of China is thought to be extinct. It is the first whale or dolphin to be made extinct by human activity. An international survey has examined the Yangtze river looking for signs of the dolphin. The last reported sighting is over 5 years ago. An animal can not be officially declared extinct until it has not been seen for at least 50 years, but the Zoological Society of London and the international study believe that the Yangtze river dolphin is most likely extinct.

Causes of the Yangtze river dolphin's demise

China's rapid modernisation and development has bought incredible pressure on the Yangtze river. 10% of the worlds population lives along the Yangtze river. Heavy human traffic on the river, industrial pollution, over fishing, as well as the Three Gorges dam, are thought to be the main culprits. The Yangtze river dolphin relied on its highly developed sonar to navigate through the murky waters of the Yangtze river. The dolphins were deafened by the vast number of boats that now sail though the river, making it impossible for them to navigate.

We are all to blame
The people who live and work on the Yangtze river area are not the only people to blame for killing the dolpins. The West's ever increasing appetite for cheap material goods is fueling the super rapid growth of China's industry. That is good news for the people of China. But it is bad news for the losers of rapid industrialisation, including the Yangtze river dolphin. So next time we buy a new gadget that we don't need, spare a thought for the Yangtze river dolphin. May they rest in peace.