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Little is known about Baiji, as few specimens have been examined and it is a difficult animal to study in the wild ( a single captive male, called Qi-Qi, has been a crucial source of information since 1980.) It is easily frightened and usually impossible to approach by boat(it makes a long dive, changes direction underwater, swims underneath the boat, and surfaces far behind) Sometimes seen in the company of Finless Porpoises, it is ,most active from early evening to early morning. There are thought to 40 to 45 separate groups altogether in the Yangtze River, China; but despite legal protection since 1949, the Baiji's population is still declining. It is probably the most endangered of all cetaceans.
Others Names: Yangtze River Dolphins, Beiji, Pei C'hi, Whitefin dolphin, whiteflag dolphin, Chinese River dolphins.
Blow difficult to see, but sounds like a high-pitched sneeze and can be heard at close range. Animal is hard to find in choppy conditions. During active periods, swims rapidly with much variation in direction and style(often on its back or side) and frequent, short dives. At other times, swims slowly and smoothly(usually in one direction) with fewer, longer dives. Typically has several short breathing intervals followed by a longer dive. Frequently rests in deep-water eddies, often staying in one place for 5 to 6 hours.
Occurs along 1700km of the Yangtze River, China, though very rare above Zhicheng and below Nanjing. Most common from Luoshan to Xintankou, and from Anqing to Heishazhou. Found mainly where tributaries enter the river, especially immediately upstream or downstream of sandbanks and islets.
| Family: |
Pontoporiidae |
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| Species: | Lipotes vexillifer | |
| Habitat | Riverine | |
| Status: | Endangered | |
| Population: | 150-200 | |
| Threats: | Entanglement in fishing nets, hunting/whaling, habitat destruction, human disturbance, pollution | |
| Group size: | 3-4(1-6), more may gather at good feeding grounds | |
| Fin position: | Slightly behind center |   |
| Birth wt: | Unknown | |
| Adult wt: | 220-355lb (100-160kg) | |
| Diet: | Fish |
