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Explore the south asian river dolphin in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the south asian river dolphin in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the south asian river dolphin in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the south asian river dolphin’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
South Asian river dolphin
Scientific name: Platanista gangetica
IUCN Status: Endangered
Family: PLATANISTIDAE
Group: Marine mammals
Sensitivity to human approach: Very shy
Minimum approach distance: 50 m
Reproductive period: October to November
Duration: 10–11 mois
Births: October to November
Habitat:
Shallow rivers, oxbow lakes and canals
Activity period :
Active intermittently throughout day and night.
Identification and description:
The South Asian river dolphin is a small freshwater cetacean in the family Platanistidae, measuring 2–2.5 m in length, with a pale grey streamlined body and a long narrow beak. It inhabits shallow rivers, oxbow lakes, and canals of the South Asian subcontinent, feeding mainly on freshwater fish and crustaceans. Blind, it uses echolocation to navigate and hunt in turbid waters.
Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens and approach quietly by boat or kayak at drift speed. Shoot at water level to capture the blow and the dolphin's profile, using a fast shutter speed to freeze splashes and a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject.
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