In the past, baiji entered Lake Dongtinghu during spring floods and, as the water level receded, returned to the main channel of the Yangtze. Its range has been reduced to less than half of its former boundaries as rivers and tributaries were filled with land, dredged and dammed. Now, baiji are only found in the main channel of the Yangtze River drainage. Their only known prey are a species of large-scaled fish and a long, eel like catfish. Baiji hunt at night or early morning in the mud at or near the bottom.
Echolocation is used to locate food and fellow baiji in the muddy water.
Baiji usually travel in small groups of 1 to 4 individuals and sightings occur near sandbanks and tributary junctions. They are believed to be slow but strong swimmers and rarely dive for more than 1 to 2 minutes. In appearance, baiji are similar to other river dolphins or platanistids. Baiji are easily frightened and difficult to approach by motor boat. Propeller injuries are the major cause of death.