Gulf of California, MexicoThe 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.
Physical Characteristics & Habitat
Size & Speed
| Metric | Vaquita | Carnivore Mammals Median | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 55 kg | 50 kg | ↑ 10% |
| Height | 150 cm | — | — |
Habitat & Distribution
The Vaquita inhabits gulf of california habitats. It can be found in Gulf of California, Mexico.
Typical coloring: Grey, White.
Diet & Predators
Behavior & Reproduction
Social Structure
The Vaquita is a solitary species belonging to the Phocoenidae family.
Reproduction
Conservation & Comparison
IUCN Conservation Status
CR The Vaquita is classified as Critically Endangered. There are 19 species with the same status in our database.
Estimated population: 12 individuals.
Known threats: Capture in fishermen's gillnets.
Species Comparison
Among 32 carnivore mammals, the Vaquita’s weight of Up to 55 kg is comparable to the group median of 50 kg.
Weight rank: #13 of 19 Critically Endangered species.
| # | Species | Weight | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gharial | Up to 1500 kg | CR |
| 2 | Black Rhinoceros | 800–1400 kg | CR |
| 3 | Sumatran Rhino | 750–950 kg | CR |
| 4 | Sumatran Rhinoceros | 500–950 kg | CR |
| 5 | White Tiger | 100–300 kg | CR |
Related Species
How much does a Vaquita weigh?
A Vaquita typically weighs Up to 55 kg, which is near the global average compared to the median of 50 kg among carnivore mammals.
What is the conservation status of the Vaquita?
The Vaquita is classified as “Critically Endangered”. There are 19 species with the same status in our database.
Where does the Vaquita live?
The Vaquita is found in Gulf of California, Mexico, in gulf of california habitats.
How does the Vaquita reproduce?
The Vaquita has a gestation period of 10–11 months and typically produces 1 offspring per birth.
Data Sources: IUCN, WWF, National Geographic, Smithsonian Institution.
Last Updated: April 10, 2026