Dolphin populations across the globe are in decline due to a number of environmental and human-related threats. Though dolphin populations vary in size and stability, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports that at least 32 dolphin species are currently threatened with extinction.

The IUCN lists three dolphin species as “critically endangered,” including the vaquita, the world’s smallest dolphin which is found only in the Gulf of California. As few as 30 vaquitas remain in the wild, and the species is on the brink of extinction due to bycatch in the region’s gillnet fisheries. Another critically endangered dolphin is the Chinese River dolphin, or baiji, which was declared extinct in 2006 after an intensive search failed to find any individuals in the wild. Though the baiji was once the most abundant freshwater dolphin in Asia, its population had declined by an estimated 96% by the late 20th century due to pollution, overfishing, and habitat loss. The third critically endangered dolphin is the Maui dolphin, a subspecies of the Hector’s dolphin which is found only off the coast of New Zealand. Fewer than 50 Maui dolphins are thought to remain in the wild, and the species is at risk of extinction due to bycatch in gillnet and trawl fisheries. In addition to the three critically endangered dolphin species, the IUCN lists 29 dolphin species as “data deficient,” meaning there is not enough information to make a judgement about their conservation status.

This is often due to the fact that these dolphin species are poorly studied or live in remote areas which are difficult to access. Despite the challenges, there are many organizations and individuals working to protect dolphin populations across the globe. Through conservation efforts and public awareness campaigns, it is possible to protect these amazing creatures for future generations to enjoy.