Gulf of California

WWF is leading the effort to save the critically endangered Vaquita, a porpoise endemic to the Gulf of California. Scientists believe there are around 245 of these cetaceans left in the world.
© Drawing: Samara King, Eques Inc.

Status: Critically endangered
Total remaining: Around 245 individuals

Also known as the Gulf of California harbor porpoise, the vaquita is the smallest porpoise in the world, never reaching more than about five feet in length. It is difficult to observe in the wild because of its elusive behavior; in fact, the vaquita was not even discovered until 1958.

Vaquitas are disappearing because they are being trapped and drowned inadvertently in gillnets set for mackerels, sharks, rays and other species. WWF and other experts estimate that only about 245 vaquitas remain in the wild. If present trends continue, the species might be gone within a decade.

WWF and its partners have outlined a vaquita recovery project with the goals of phasing out the use of gillnets (responsible for drowning as many as 80 vaquitas a year) and expanding a vaquita sanctuary that will cover the entire distribution area of the species. The project also aims to promote sustainable economic alternatives for local fishermen and communities and to implement a sound regional fisheries management plan.