2025 Vaquita Population Survey Announcement
About The Survey
Each year, Sea Shepherd provides the only large vessel operating full-time inside the Vaquita Refuge, giving scientists and government officials a secure platform to conduct the annual population survey—the only effort that tracks how many vaquitas remain.
Working alongside the Mexican Navy and expert researchers, our crew supports survey logistics, vessel operations, and data collection across the refuge. The results help authorities target the removal of illegal gillnets linked to the totoaba trade and guide patrols where protection is needed most. By maintaining a constant presence and ensuring that science leads enforcement, we help turn data into action—and give this species its best chance to survive.
Vaquita Defense: The Campaign
In the Upper Gulf of California, Sea Shepherd maintains the only permanent large ship inside the Vaquita Refuge. Our crews work daily with the Mexican Navy and partner scientists to deter illegal fishing, remove deadly gear, and safeguard the last remaining vaquitas.
This campaign turns monitoring into action: we combine constant patrols, rapid net retrieval, and targeted enforcement informed by science. Every hour on the water reduces risk, protects habitat, and gives the species room to recover.
Your support keeps our crews on the water—where protection matters most.
WEAR THE FIGHT TO SAVE THE VAQUITA
Shirts, Kids Items, Mugs, and Totes — add what you like in a few taps. Every purchase helps fund 24/7 patrols in the Vaquita Refuge.
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