On January 3, 2025, a newborn Franciscana dolphin calf was discovered stranded on a beach in Florianópolis, Brazil, and was named Francisca. She was alone, dehydrated, and severely weakened. Without immediate help, she would not have had a chance of survival.
Franciscana dolphins (Pontoporia blainvillei) are among the most endangered dolphin species in South America. Dolphin calves like Francisca are particularly dependent on their mothers during the first few months of life. 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 provided with medical care. Francisca was weak, but she fought – and she won.
Seven months later, it is clear how successful the rescue was: Francisca actively swims in a large pool, now eats fish independently, is playful, attentive, and very curious. The Franciscana dolphin calf has developed well physically, but still requires care, so release into the wild is not possible at this time.
Today, Francisca is a symbol and ambassador for her endangered dolphin species and an example of how dedicated species conservation saves lives.
R3 Animal ensures their care and long-term survival. YAQU PACHA supports R3 Animal in this endeavor and has been committed to protecting endangered marine mammals for over 30 years.
Let's give Francisca a future! Support Francisca and the rescue and rehabilitation efforts for all other stranded Franciscana dolphins with your donation.