The endangered Amazonian river dolphins Inia geoffrensis and Sotalia fluviatilis face profound population declines, accelerated by a recent large-scale die-off related to severe environmental changes; all considered a direct result of our worsening global climate crisis. Unfortunately, experts expect similar die-offs, called unusual mortality events (UMEs), to continue. A general lack of knowledge about the health status of these species exacerbates these concerns since understanding population-level health is a crucial component of effective mitigation and conservation strategies.

This project aims to fill urgently needed Amazonian river dolphin health data gaps and support responses to UMEs in South America, aiding local species experts in their conservation efforts at a critical moment. To accomplish this, the National Marine Mammal Foundation (NMMF), in partnership with R3 Animal Association proposes to provide tailored veterinary assistance to local conservation groups in the form of (1) a local aquatic mammal veterinarian dedicated to river dolphin health evaluations, disease surveillance, and immediate and improved responses to stranded dolphins throughout South America, with an emphasis in Brazil; and (2) through high-quality on-demand scientific and veterinary support provided by NMMF conservation medicine experts. These efforts will provide expert assistance to local organizations fighting for the survival of Amazonian dolphins.