Vaquita

Phocoena sinus

The Vaquita is one of the most endangered species on Earth. On the brink of extinction, there are only around 10 left on the planet. This small, friendly cetacean is so rare to see, that locals believe it is actually a mythical creature as so few have never seen one. Every day, the Vaquita runs the risk of being caught in fishing nets. Static fishing nets from poachers have almost entirely destroyed the species, with 90% of the population wiped out between 2011 and 2016. Poaching is rife in the Gulf of California, where the Vaquita makes it’s home. These poachers target the Totoaba, who live alongside the Vaquita, for their swim bladders. These swim bladders have been dubbed ‘aquatic cocaine’ for their high street value, used for traditional medicines or simply as a status symbol or proof of wealth. The static nets left by poachers to catch the Totoaba are the greatest risk to the Vaquita, with both species being pushed to the brink because of selfish human behaviour.