The tiny vaquita porpoise is the most threatened sea mammal in the world. Fewer than 10 are left – pushed to the edge of extinction by illegal fishing nets that ensnare and drown them within minutes.
But there's a flicker of hope.
Scientists have discovered astounding genetic health among the last surviving vaquitas – meaning these beautiful creatures could fully bounce back if dangerous fishing practices end now. And we can help make that happen!
San Felipe in Mexico is the centre of the local fishing industry. And three amazing groups there are working flat out to equip locals with sustainable fishing gear that’s completely safe for vaquitas.
Already fishers are switching over, but with so few vaquitas left we need to act quickly. They urgently need money to buy safe fishing gear, train people how to use it and get it onto fishing boats as fast as possible.
Can you chip in to protect the last 7 vaquitas -- and marine environments everywhere?
More information
Vaquita porpoise could survive … but only if illegal fishing stops immediately
The Guardian. 5 May 2022.
The Guardian. 5 May 2022.