The Baiji dolphin, also known as the Yangtze river dolphin or the Chinese river dolphin, was a species of freshwater dolphin native to the Yangtze River in China. Sadly, this species was declared functionally extinct in 2007, making it the first dolphin species to become extinct due to human activity. This is a sad tale of extinction that we must remember and learn from.

The Baiji dolphin was an ancient species that had lived in the river for over 20 million years. These dolphins could grow up to eight feet in length and weigh up to 500 pounds. They had a distinctive long, narrow beak and a smooth, slender body that made them difficult to spot in the murky river waters. They were also known for their unique sonar abilities, which they used to navigate and hunt for prey in the river.

However, human activities like dam-building, pollution, overfishing, and boat traffic had a devastating impact on the Baiji dolphin population. The river became increasingly polluted due to urbanization and industrialization. The construction of dams and hydroelectric power stations adversely affected the river’s flow and blocked the migration routes of the Baiji dolphins. Besides, the widespread use of fishing nets also resulted in accidental deaths of these dolphins, which could not escape from the nets due to their hydrodynamic structure.

Despite several efforts by environmental organizations to save the Baiji dolphins, the last confirmed sighting of these dolphins was reported in 2002. A joint expedition by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the World Wildlife Fund in 2006 declared the species functionally extinct – that there were not enough dolphins left for the population to recover.

This sad tale of extinction highlights the need for humans to be aware of our impact on nature and to take corrective measures before it’s too late. The Baiji dolphin’s extinction is a reminder that we need to take responsibility for our actions that harm our environment and the species that inhabit it. Collective effort in preserving and protecting our environment is necessary to prevent species from going extinct.

However, the extinction of the Baiji dolphin also offers an opportunity to learn and take action. We can learn from this sad tale and make proactive efforts towards protecting the riverine habitat and other freshwater dolphin populations. The examples of other successful conservation projects, such as the restoration of the Amazon river dolphin population, could be studied and adapted to efforts to conserve the Baiji dolphin.

In conclusion, remembering the extinction of the Baiji dolphin is crucial, as it highlights the destructive impact of human activities on the environment. The lesson we should learn from this sad tale is that we are responsible for protecting our planet and all its inhabitants. We must take corrective action now before it’s too late, preventing further extinctions and preserving biodiversity.