'vaquita purpoise

The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is the world's most endangered marine mammal. Found only in the shallow northern waters of Mexico’s Gulf of California, the species is easily recognized by its compact body, dark eye rings, and dark patches around the mouth that resemble a subtle smile. Adults measure roughly 1.2–1.5 meters long and weigh between 30 and 55 kilograms, feeding mainly on small fish, squid, and crustaceans near the seafloor. Vaquitas are shy, elusive animals that usually occur alone or in small groups, making them difficult to observe. Although once more numerous, the population has collapsed dramatically over the past few decades due almost entirely to accidental capture in gillnets set for other fish—especially the illegal fishery for totoaba. With only about 6–10 individuals believed to remain, the species is on the brink of extinction, and its survival now depends on the complete elimination of gillnets within its limited range and strict enforcement of marine protection measures.