Rare pink dolphins filmed off Kampot coast

A rare drone video of Indo‑Pacific humpback dolphins has captivated social media users in Cambodia, shining a spotlight on the country’s marine conservation efforts and the fragile beauty of these vulnerable animals.

The short clip, filmed over the Prek Tnaot fishing community in Kampot Province, shows a juvenile dolphin playfully circling its parents before gently touching snouts – a gesture interpreted as affection and bonding. The footage has been widely shared online, with viewers praising the heartwarming scene and the protection of Cambodia’s coastal ecosystems.

Agriculture Minister Dith Tina posted the video on his Facebook page, noting that the dolphins’ peaceful behaviour reflects the success of conservation measures in the area. Since 2023, the Fisheries Administration has worked with Marine Conservation Cambodia and local authorities to deploy artificial reef structures, boosting biodiversity and supporting sustainable fishing for local communities.

The Indo‑Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis), often nicknamed the “pink dolphin” for its distinctive hue, is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Adults can reach up to 3.5 metres in length and live for decades, but their populations are under pressure from habitat loss, pollution and fishing activity.

In the Gulf of Thailand, surveys have identified small populations near Surat Thani and Ang Thong Marine National Park, with around 160 individuals recorded off Donsak. These dolphins favour shallow coastal waters, mangroves and seagrass beds – habitats increasingly threatened by development and overfishing.

For Cambodia, sightings of the species are rare but significant. Conservationists say the viral footage is more than just a social media sensation: it is evidence that marine protection policies are beginning to pay off. The presence of dolphins in Kampot’s waters suggests healthier ecosystems, offering hope for both wildlife and local fishing communities.

As the clip continues to circulate online, it has become a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding Southeast Asia’s marine heritage. For many viewers, the playful pink dolphin family embodies a simple truth – that protecting nature can bring joy as well as survival.

-2026-05-11