Amazonian Pink River Dolphins

We had the opportunity to go and see the fantastic Amazonian pink river dolphin. These are one of the only two (the grey river dolphin being the other) fresh water dolphins. The pink dolphins do have grey skins but when near the surface of the water, the sun's rays colours them a marvellous pink colour.

The dolphins come to the same spot at same time every day to get a few fishy snacks.  Some time ago, an old restaurant was closing down and threw all of its waste fish into the river. These attracted the dolphins who have since returned to the same spot every day. There are strict rules concerning the dolphins, though. They can only be fed a little so they don't become domesticated. People used to be able to swim with them, but this is no longer allowed as the powers that be want these dolphins to remain as wild as possible. They are really friendly, though and loved the girl who was feeding (and not just because she was feeding them!)

There is an old legend that the male river dolphins used to turn into human men and come to parties with the intention of luring human females to the river and then kidnapping them.  The locals will ask any strange male at festivities to lift their hat to them, or show them the tops of their heads as the dolphins still retained their blowholes when their changed. A fishy story (even though, yes dolphins are mammals and not fish)!

You can see the large bucket of fish in this picture and the two eager dolphins.  The pod of dolphins that come to this spot are a family.  There were a few males, who were much larger than the females, and they all got along and were affectionate with each other.

They all loved a good tickle and scratch! Each dolphin has its own personality, and own name and responds to it. One was called Lawrence, as I recall.

Me, petting a friendly river dolphin.