Vaquita

Phocoena sinus

CR Carnivore Gulf Of California
Up to 55 kg
Weight
20–21 yrs
Lifespan
N/A
Top Speed
Mexico Gulf of California, Mexico
Found In

The Vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is one of the world’s most critically endangered carnivore mammals, with an estimated population of 12 individuals. Found in Gulf of California, Mexico, it inhabits gulf of california habitats and faces threats from capture in fishermen's gillnets.

Size, Speed & Lifespan

Metric Vaquita Carnivore Mammals Median Difference
Weight 55 kg 50 kg ↑ 10%
Height 150 cm
Lifespan 20.5 yrs 12.5 yrs ↑ 64%
Weight (kg)55avg 50Lifespan (yrs)20.5avg 12.5

Range Across 2 Regions

Habitat: Gulf Of California
Found In: Gulf of California, Mexico Mexico
Coloration: Grey, White

Behavior

Natural Predators

Social Structure

Recorded as Solitary.

Reproduction & Lifespan

Gestation Period: 10–11 months
Offspring per Birth: 1
Lifespan: 20–21 years

On the Brink of Extinction

CR Listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List — one of 19 species in this database with the same status.

Estimated population: 12 individuals.

Documented threats:

Weight Rank Among Critically Endangered Species

Ranked #13 of 19 by typical adult weight.

# Species Weight Status
11 Bornean Orangutan 30–82 kg CR
12 Orangutan 30–82 kg CR
13 Vaquita Up to 55 kg CR
14 Sumatran Orangutan 23–56 kg CR
15 Pangolin 2–40 kg CR
16 Indri Up to 6 kg CR

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