International Save the Vaquita Day
An annual event similar to Earth Day but with a specific focus on raising awareness and appreciation of the world’s most endangered marine mammal, the vaquita (Phocoena sinus). In May 2016, the population size of the vaquita is considered to be 60, based on the results of a 2015 vessel survey and acoustic study. It is the smallest of only seven species of true porpoises and is the only one that lives in warm waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean. It is found in a tiny area in the extreme northern Gulf of California, near Baja California. Events around the globe will direct the attention of people to the plight of this tiny porpoise species and what needs to be done to save it from extinction. There will be over 28 booths and other venues at sites in southern California and all over the world. There will be educational demonstrations, children's games, music, free prizes, educational brochures, inspirational talks, face painting, and several life-size models of vaquitas on hand to draw attention to and appreciation of the vaquita, Mexico’s “Panda of the Sea." The band Insect Surfers will perform.