The vaquita porpoise population continues to dwindle, with no newborn sightings and concerns growing for their survival
A recent expedition in the Gulf of California has reported a concerning sighting of just 6 to 8 vaquita porpoises, marking a significant decline from last year’s report, which estimated 10 to 13 individuals. The vaquita marina is the world’s smallest porpoise and the most critically endangered marine mammal, with its habitat restricted to this region of Mexico.
The Sea Shepherd conservation group conducted the May expedition, which focused primarily on the vaquitas’ protected zone in the Gulf, an area where fishing is prohibited to protect the species. However, no newborn calves were seen, raising concerns about the species’ ability to reproduce. The only juvenile spotted was deemed healthy, offering a small glimmer of hope.
In contrast to last year, when about half of the vaquitas sighted were found outside the protection zone, the expedition this year focused more intensely within the designated area. The reasons for the vaquitas’ preference for areas just outside the protection zone remain unclear. Despite strict regulations, illegal fishing still threatens the species, as fishermen use gillnets, which are known to entangle and kill the vaquitas.
With such a small population remaining, conservationists fear for the future of the vaquita, as they cannot be captured, held, or bred in captivity, making their survival in the wild their only chance. The ongoing challenges of illegal fishing, coupled with the apparent lack of new births, signal a grim outlook for the species’ recovery.