Saving the Last Vaquita
Operation Vaquita Defense represents over a decade of Sea Shepherd's efforts to prevent the extinction of the vaquita porpoise, which has been decimated by illegal nets intended for the high value totoaba fish.
There’s No “Undo” Button for Extinct Species
Illegal nets set for the totoaba — a fish prized in eastern medicine — have pushed the vaquita to the brink. Sea Shepherd defends their last stronghold on Earth.
SEA SHEPHERD CREWS have spent over a decade in the Upper Gulf of California defending the vaquita porpoise from the edge of extinction. Jacques Cousteau called this region “the aquarium of the sea.” Despite being endemic to these nutrient-rich waters, scientists estimate fewer than ten vaquitas remain today.
At an average length of just three feet, vaquitas are killed in black-market gillnets intended for the similarly sized totoaba. The totoaba’s swim bladder is trafficked overseas, where it can fetch high prices. The presence of these nets has driven the vaquita to the edge.
Vaquitas were projected to be extinct by 2021, but they still hang on. Attempts to capture vaquitas for captivity and breeding have failed. Research indicates that the animal is reproducing in the wild and that genetic diversity remains sufficient for recovery if nets are kept out of the refuge. See also the Vaquita Survey.
- One market, many victims: nets set for totoaba also catch dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and turtles.
- Tiny range, high risk: the species occupies a small area.
- Status: recent surveys continue to detect vaquitas — see the Vaquita Survey.
Key zone: Vaquita Refuge / Zero Tolerance Area
Sea Shepherd’s Response
Mission, plain and simple: remove illegal nets and prevent new nets from being set. Our crews work side-by-side with the Mexican Navy to patrol the refuge, recover ghost gear, and deter poachers before nets go in the water.
- Constant patrols: ships on station in the refuge with day/night watch.
- Rapid retrieval: launches cut, haul, and remove gillnets and ghost gear.
- Modern tools: drones, thermal optics, and proven comms extend coverage.
Reports posted from vessels regularly. Full data set available on request. Learn more about the 2025 Vaquita Survey.
Impact
Direct action at sea changes outcomes for the vaquita. Here’s what the effort delivers:
How we measure progress
- Patrol logs and retrieval records
- Coordinated monitoring with partner agencies
- Independent detections — see the Vaquita Survey
*Combining constant Sea Shepherd presence with Mexican Navy measures.
Take Action
Your support keeps our ships at sea, pulls deadly gear, and gives the vaquita a real chance to recover in the wild.
Can I give stock, DAF, or crypto?
Yes — see all ways to give for wiring, DAF, stock, and crypto options.
Where can I see the latest population findings?
Visit the Vaquita Survey page for results and methodology.
Prefer to give another way? See all ways to give.
