Today I will be talking about the Vaquita! It has been known for a while that extinction was an imminent threat for this species, but just this past thursday, scientists announced that only 10 of them likely remain. The worlds smallest porpoise (at 5 feet long and about 120lbs) is found only in Mexicos northern Gulf of California. The threat? Gillnets. Vertical nets hung in the water to catch fish by their gills that swim through. This is one of the most destructive fishing practices because it is indiscriminating, will catch anything that swims by, and that has included sharks, turtles, sunfish, and the vaquita. The netting will either trap them, preventing them from swimming and getting oxygen, or will slowly suffocate them to death. I know, it’s brutal, but this stuff is no joke and is still being used!! Many groups have taken a stand to help save this special porpoise species! July 9th has even been dedicated as International Vaquita Day! Did you know their name means “little cow” in spanish? Every animal matters, every one plays a role, every one is worth saving!
Originally posted on 17 March 2019
(not my pictures)
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