Save the Vaquitas!

Click the picture above to visit a website for more information	Vaquita Characteristics The vaquita is the smallest cetacean mammal. Vaquitas have compact, robust bodies and a rounded head with little or no beak. Their triangular dorsal fin is proportionately tall and is located in the middle of the back. They are normally found in small groups and feed on small fishes and squids. There are only 150-200 left in the entire world, so they are extremely endangered
	Location They are only found in the northern portion of the Gulf of Mexico. The vaquita lives in shallow lagoons along the shoreline.
Threats Vaquitas are incidentally taken as by-catch in local gillnet and trawl fisheries. Commercial fishing is by far the greatest threat to individuals, their habitat, and the species overall survival. It is estimated that at least 30-85 individuals are taken incidentally each year.
	Conservation The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN's) Red List of Threatened Species considers this species "Critically Endangered." Mexico has taken steps to protect the vaquita by establishing an international committee (CIRVA) as well as a bio-reserve in the upper portion of the Gulf of California in order to conserve and protect the endangered vaquita and other threatened wildlife. Sign the petition to save the vaquita!

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Lori Loutan takes full responsibility for the information posted. The information on this page represents that of Lori Loutan not that of California State University Sacramento