Quick answer
Vaquitas (Phocoena sinus) are listed in our guides as Critically Endangered. That IUCN-style label describes global extinction risk and can differ from national lists — habitat loss and human pressure still decide local survival.
Key takeaway
Vaquitas (Phocoena sinus) are listed in our guides as Critically Endangered. That IUCN-style label describes global extinction risk and can differ from national lists — habitat loss and human pressure still decide local survival.
Vaquita conservation status
Vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is recorded here as Critically Endangered. Global categories summarise extinction risk; regional populations can be safer or worse than the headline label.
Threats facing vaquitas
Habitat loss around Shallow northern Gulf of California, hunting or persecution, climate pressure, and conflict with people are common drivers. Exact ranking of threats varies by region.
Outlook for Vaquita populations
Where monitoring exists, trends track protected-area quality and enforcement. Fragmented groups need corridors and genetic exchange to avoid local extinction.
What actually helps
Support verified conservation programmes, cut demand for illegal wildlife products, and protect habitat. Tourism helps only when operators follow ethical wildlife standards.
On the edge of extinction
The vaquita is the most endangered marine mammal in the world. Surveys suggest only around ten individuals may remain. The main threat is drowning in illegal gillnets set for fish and especially for the totoaba, whose swim bladder is trafficked for high prices.
A race to save them
Conservationists, the Mexican government, and international groups are working to remove gillnets and patrol the vaquita's last refuge. Encouragingly, the surviving vaquitas still appear healthy and are reproducing, so removing nets from their habitat offers a slim but real chance of recovery.
Sources
Vaquita FAQs
Are vaquitas endangered?
Vaquitas (Phocoena sinus) are listed in our guides as Critically Endangered. That IUCN-style label describes global extinction risk and can differ from national lists — habitat loss and human pressure still decide local survival.
What is the scientific name of the vaquita?
Phocoena sinus — used in research and conservation listings for vaquitas.
What do vaquitas eat?
Vaquitas eat fish and squid, with seasonal and regional variation in Shallow northern Gulf of California.
Where do vaquitas live?
They are associated with Shallow northern Gulf of California. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of vaquitas?
Listed in our guides as Critically Endangered. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.