TOCANTINS, BRAZIL — Two Araguaia river dolphins were rescued after becoming trapped in a pool in the Urubu River, in Lagoa da Confusão, western Tocantins state. The animals became isolated after water levels dropped near a dam.

According to WWF-Brazil, both animals were in critical condition, and one showed signs of starvation and dehydration caused by exposure to the sun. The rescue took place between Aug. 21 and 24 and included medical examinations, medication and the transfer of the animals to another section of the river.

Four other dolphins were found isolated in the area. Three were trapped in a pool about 500 meters from the site of the first rescue, while a sixth animal was located during searches using drones and kayaks.

Rainfall in the following days raised water levels, making it unnecessary to relocate the other four animals. They remain under the monitoring of technical teams.

The operation involved WWF-Brazil, through the Araguaia River Dolphin Conservation Network (REBOTO), the Emergency Task Force for River Dolphins, the South American River Dolphin Initiative (SARDI), the Municipal Department of Environment and Water Resources of Lagoa da Confusão, Fazenda Goiás, Naturatins and Civil Defense. SEMA and Fazenda Goiás also provided fish to feed the animals.

Amazon Agency