In a heartening ecological development, pods of Chinese white dolphins – affectionately dubbed 'pandas of the sea' – have been observed frolicking near Xiamen's Gulangyu Island this November. The rare marine mammals, recognized by their distinctive pink hue in adulthood, were documented engaging in social behaviors that scientists say indicates a healthy local ecosystem.
The sightings come as coastal authorities implement enhanced protection measures under China's 2025 Marine Biodiversity Action Plan. 'These dolphins serve as vital indicators for marine health,' explained Dr. Li Wei, a marine biologist at Xiamen University. 'Their increased activity near urban coastlines suggests successful pollution control and fishery management policies.'
While exact population figures remain protected, conservationists note steady growth in the Pearl River Delta population since 2020. The species, classified as vulnerable by IUCN, benefits from expanded protected zones and strict anti-poaching laws enacted across the Chinese mainland's southern coastal regions.
Tourism officials emphasize responsible observation protocols, with new electric-powered excursion boats launching in 2025 to minimize disturbance to marine life. The phenomenon has drawn global attention, with UNESCO considering adding the Taiwan Strait's white dolphin habitats to its World Heritage tentative list.
