Animal In Focus
Famed for its smiling appearance, the Irrawaddy dolphin is an unusual looking cetacean and some Laotians believe them to be reincarnated humans. Unlike most dolphins, the Irrawaddy has a large forehead with no beak, and a rising mouthline. With a long flexible neck, it can turn its head from side to side, helping it to entrap its prey. The Irrawaddy dolphin has an even grey-blue colouration, with a paler stomach.