13 February 2007

Little Cows in Danger

Vaquita (Phocoena sinus)

The Vaquita, which means little cow in Spanish, may not survive more than a few years, if immediate action is not taken. It is estimated that there are fewer than 400 individuals in their limited range, which encompasses the Northern part of the Gulf of California.

The main threat to this species is accidental bycatch in the nets of local fishermen. Fishing is the main economical driver in this region, complicating the Vaquita's plight, even further. Another problem may be the drastically reduced flow of the Colorado river due to damming, and the run-off of pesticides drained from agricultural lands along the river.

Conservationists are attempting to find solutions to this problem. Read more here.

Wikipedia article.

Support EDGE or WWF International, both of whom are working to save this species.

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