Life History

Coloration of Chinese White Dolphins

Lifespan of Chinese White Dolphins

Coloration of Chinese White Dolphins

Chinese White Dolphins display a variety of colors throughout their life stages. Newborn Chinese White Dolphins are dark gray and measure approximately 100 cm in length. As they mature into juveniles, their coloration shifts to a grayish-pink with prominent spots. In adulthood, these spots gradually fade, resulting in a pinkish-white coloration. Adults can grow to a maximum length of about 270 cm and weigh up to 250 kg.

Reason for Pink Coloration

The pink coloration of Chinese White Dolphins is attributed to a process known as thermoregulation. When Chinese White Dolphins are active, the blood vessels near the skin's surface expand to release heat, similar to the blushing effect humans experience after intense exercise, when the face and skin turn red.

Reproduction and Calving

Chinese White Dolphins reach sexual maturity between 9 and 14 years of age. They can give birth to calves at any time of the year, with peak calving seasons occurring in spring and summer. The gestation period for these dolphins is approximately 11 months.

Lifespan of Chinese White Dolphins

In the wild, Chinese White Dolphins can live up to 40 years. The oldest recorded Chinese White Dolphin in Hong Kong was about 38 years old.