On January 3, 2025, a newborn stranded Franciscana dolphin calf was discovered on a beach in Florianópolis, Brazil, and given the name Francisca. It was alone, dehydrated and severely weakened. Without immediate help, it would have had no chance of survival.
Franciscana dolphins(Pontoporia blainvillei) are one of the most endangered dolphin species in South America. Dolphin calves like Francisca in particular are completely dependent on their mother in the first few months of their lives. When a calf like Francisca is found alone, it usually means certain death - but this time everything turned out differently.
Francisca was immediately taken into the care of our project partner R3 Animal. There, a complex rescue process began: in the first few weeks, the dolphin calf was given special milk, monitored around the clock and given medical care. Francisca was weak, but she fought - and she won.
Seven months later, it is clear how successful the rescue was: Francisca is actively swimming in a large tank, now eats fish on her own, is playful, attentive and very curious. The Franciscana dolphin calf has developed well physically, but is still dependent on care, meaning that it is currently not possible to release her back into the wild.
Francisca is now a symbol and ambassador for her endangered dolphin species and an example of how committed species conservation saves lives.
R3 Animal ensures their care and long-term survival. YAQU PACHA supports R3 Animal and has been committed to the protection of endangered marine mammals for over 30 years.
Let's give Francisca a future! Support Francisca and the rescue and rehabilitation measures for all other stranded Franciscana dolphins with your donation.