Vaquita (Phocoena sinus)

The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is the world's rarest marine mammal, with fewer than 10 individuals remaining. Found only in the northern Gulf of California, this tiny porpoise grows to about 1.5 meters long and is known for its dark eye rings and shy nature. The primary threat is illegal gillnet fishing for the totoaba fish, which traps and drowns vaquitas. Despite conservation efforts, their population continues to decline, making them critically endangered. Urgent action is needed to prevent their extinction.