Extinction may be near for an adorable marine mammal from northern Mexico.
The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) porpoise is the most endangered species on the planet. Its population dropped by 92 percent in just 18 years due to illegal fishing and accidental catches in nets called gillnets.
A demand for fish swim bladders in China has caused fishermen to go to great lengths including cross-border smuggling, night-time operations and Mexican drug cartel participation to seize the beloved animal.
In an effort to raise awareness for the endangered porpoise and urge the Mexican government to take action by permanently banning gillnets, the nonprofit organization ¡VIVA Vaquita! and its partners have organized International Save the Vaquita Day. This year, it happens July 9.
Locally, representatives and volunteers from the American Cetacean Society, Save the Whales and the Monterey Bay Aquarium will gather at Window on the Bay Park and at the Wharf Marketplace off Del Monte Blvd. from 10am-2pm to support the cause.
The worldwide event features over 28 booths and venues in Southern California including educational demonstrations, children's games and events, face painting and more. Seaport Village in San Diego will have live music by the Los Angeles-based surf band, Insect Surfers.
For more information, visit ¡VIVA Vaquita!’s website.
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