Deep within the Amazon Basin swims a mysterious creature — the pink river dolphin, or boto. Unlike their ocean cousins, these dolphins live in muddy rivers, weaving gracefully between tree roots and flooded forests. Their unusual pink colour is one of nature’s surprises. Scientists believe it comes from scar tissue; as dolphins age, marks left from playful fights or brushes with branches cause their skin to blush pink. Others suggest it is linked to blood vessels close to the skin.These dolphins are bigger than most expect — some grow over 2.5 metres long and weigh more than 150 kilograms. They have long, slender snouts perfect for catching fish in narrow river channels. Legends among local people add a magical twist: many tribes tell stories of botos transforming into handsome humans at night, attending village dances before slipping back into the water at dawn.Sadly, pink dolphins face threats today from pollution, fishing nets, and habitat loss. Conservation groups are working hard to protect them, reminding us that even mythical-sounding creatures need real-world care. Seeing one leap from the river, glowing almost rosy in the sun, is a moment few forget..Flexible necksUnlike ocean dolphins, pink river dolphins can turn their heads from side to side, helping them manoeuvre through flooded forests..Colour changeYounger dolphins are usually grey, turning pinker as they grow older..Special swimmersThey can swim upside down, thought to give them a better view of fish on the riverbed.
