Dolphin Calf Celebrates Birthday on Hainan!

On July 17, Hainan Ocean Paradise Resort hosted a magnificent celebration in support of harmony between humans and nature. The event was dedicated to the second birthday of the little dolphin Lingbao!

Thanks to exceptionally careful treatment of the animals and ideal living conditions, the dolphin Naya — who had lived in Europe for 11 years without ever becoming pregnant — finally found a true home at Hainan Ocean Paradise Resort. The warm tropical climate of Hainan, spacious enclosures with crystal-clear seawater, and round‑the‑clock care from specialists created an atmosphere of complete calm and safety for her.

It was this comfort that allowed Naya to relax, feel secure, and successfully give birth to a healthy calf. In the early morning of July 6, 2024, at 2:45 AM, Lingbao was born at the Blue Ocean Marine Life Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Everything went smoothly without stress or complications — the dolphin trusted the people and her surroundings.

Now Lingbao has grown to about 2.07 meters in length and, together with her father, mother, grandmother, and other family members, forms a rare three‑generation dolphin family in China.

Lingbao's birth received high praise from EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) and EEP (European Endangered Species Programme). As the only marine park in China that participates in both programmes, Hainan Ocean Paradise Resort strictly adheres to the principle that "animals are not commodities" and provides care at world‑class standards.

The Blue Ocean Marine Life Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, with investments exceeding 40 million yuan, is equipped with state‑of‑the‑art medical technology from Germany and the USA. Around‑the‑clock medical monitoring accompanied the dolphin throughout all stages — from pregnancy to childbirth and the calf's growth. Since 2019, the center has rescued and returned to the wild more than 200 marine animals.

Lingbao's story is a shining example of how careful attention and high‑quality living conditions help animals thrive, produce healthy offspring, and live joyfully.

To honor their "sea princess," the park organized a grand international party. Representatives of EAZA and EEP from Europe sent video greetings, and popular singer Feng Mingjiongjun performed a birthday song live. 

About a hundred guests gathered at Dolphin Bay for the celebration: children, partners, bloggers, children with autism, and journalists. 

Park staff warmly shared Lingbao's growth story, and everyone sang "Happy Birthday" together as the birthday girl playfully swam in the azure water, interacting with the delighted crowd.