They are seeking details about the vaquita, also known as the vaquita marina or cochito, a rare marine mammal whose scientific name is Phocoena sinus. This mammal is critically endangered, primarily because illegal nets used to catch the Totoaba macdonaldi have endangered it. The Totoaba’s swim bladders fetch high prices in certain markets, fueling illicit fishing. In response, the Mexican government and Sea Shepherd have joined forces to prevent the vaquita from vanishing.
For months, Mexican Navy vessels, patrol aircraft, and support boats have patrolled the upper Gulf of California. The effort is a race against time to save the vaquita from extinction. Population estimates have dwindled from about 97 individuals in 2015 to fewer than 40 in 2017 and only around 10 at present.
However, a recent study published in Science by biologists from the University of California suggests the species can endure if bycatch deaths are eliminated. The researchers state that the vaquita has a real chance of avoiding extinction if human-caused deaths were stopped. The study highlights that genetic factors are not necessarily preventing recovery in the short term, and kinship within the dwindling population does not seem to pose a greater risk than previously thought. The authors emphasize that the species’ survival hinges largely on human actions.
Diplomatic conflict
Diplomatic tensions have flared between Mexico and the United States as critics in the latter country argue that Mexico has not done enough to protect the smallest dolphin on the planet. Among its prominent supporters is the actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who has publicly urged action to safeguard this species.
Two vaquitas are shown swimming together in a noted photograph from conservation efforts. The image underscores the delicate state of the species and the importance of continued protection.
The Mexican Navy has increased surveillance in response to U.S. criticism. The intensified presence comes after researchers detected eight vaquitas last autumn in a study area, with efforts focusing on preventing illegal nets and keeping fishermen away from critical habitat.
The only known habitat for this species is a small region within the Gulf of California. Navy personnel and activists monitor that area daily, looking for illegal nets and enforcing a zero-tolerance approach to encroachments.
This is the final stage of an ongoing operation launched by Sea Shepherd in 2015, aimed at preventing extinction through targeted, single-purpose actions. Aircraft from patrol units conduct daily sweeps to identify ships entering prohibited waters.
Advocates highlight that recent months have provided the vaquita with its best chance in decades. The Sea Shepherd CEO has stressed the urgency of intensifying protection to secure the species’ future.
Violent clashes
The Mexican authorities have recovered a significant number of illegal nets this year, and past operations recovered hundreds more. Trammel nets create invisible barriers for a range of marine life, catching not only totoabas but also vaquitas, whales, dolphins, sharks, and turtles, according to conservation groups.
Officials now verify that fishers in the upper Gulf of California possess proper permits and examine nets for compliance. Beach patrols and coastal areas are also surveyed for abandoned or discarded nets.
Environmentalists have faced clashes with some fishermen while assisting authorities to remove illegal gear that has decimated populations for decades. The vaquita, the planet’s smallest dolphin, reaches about 1.5 meters in length and weighs up to 50 kilograms as adults.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature recognizes the species as critically endangered since 1996. In 2019 UNESCO added Gulf of California islands and surrounding protected areas to its List of World Heritage in Danger due to fears of imminent extinction.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s intervention
International attention intensified after Leonardo DiCaprio urged action in 2017 by asking his millions of followers to sign a petition addressed to the Mexican president, urging stronger protections for the vaquita. He later met with the Mexican leader and enlisted the support of business figures to back an integrated Marine Mammal Rescue Program. DiCaprio returned to the issue in subsequent years, while critics argued that more decisive government action was needed.
Diplomatic tensions persist: in early 2024 the United States requested formal consultation with Mexico on conservation efforts under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. This marks a significant moment in environmental diplomacy between the two nations. There is talk that the U.S. government could consider sanctions if commitments are not met.
Though little is known about the vaquitas, estimates suggest an average lifespan around 20 years under ideal conditions. They mature around age three. During the breeding season, gestation lasts roughly 10 to 11 months, and calves are typically born every one to two years. Young vaquitas are dependent for several months after birth.
They communicate through ultrasound and generally avoid ships, surfacing briefly for air before disappearing again. This elusive behavior makes direct observation challenging. A reference study that informs much of this understanding is cited as Science, with ongoing assessment and monitoring by conservation researchers.
Conservation efforts continue to focus on habitat protection, enforcement against illegal fishing, and international cooperation to prevent further losses. These efforts are vital for the long-term survival of the vaquita, a species whose fate may hinge on sustained human commitment and effective policy.