Debate Surrounds Saving Mexico's Vaquita Porpoise Associated Press
go to original June 8, 2016

Vaquita porpoise in Mexico is marine mammal on the brink of extinction. As of May 13, 2016, the population estimate is now 60 animals. (Chris Johnson)

A new report on Mexico's endangered vaquita marina porpoise says authorities may have to consider trapping some of the few remaining specimens to try to breed them in captivity or semi-captivity.

Some experts oppose that, saying it could kill the few vaquitas left.

The vaquita is the world's smallest porpoise, and there are only around 60 in the Gulf of California, the only place in the world they live.

The report by the International Commission for the Recovery of the Vaquita says so-called "offsite" conservation should be considered. That could mean putting the dolphins in breeding pens, either in coastal waters or elsewhere.

The report also says the Mexican government should consider banning all fishing in the upper Gulf of California if current protective regulations continue to fail.

See the original at Daily Mail

Related: A Desperate Attempt to Save the World's Smallest Porpoise Could End Up Killing It Off (VICE News)

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