A very important part of the conservation of the La Plata dolphins is the aerial surveys, which are carried out using airplanes with specially curved windows from which the animals are counted.

These flight counts were conducted in March and April 2023 along the coast of Uruguay and are crucial for determining the population of the La Plata dolphin in Uruguay.

In this way, population declines can be detected immediately, which is of great importance for a better assessment of the species' situation. The results of the flight counts are shared with the partner institutions involved in the project. Regular aerial counts are important in order to identify population fluctuations and develop new strategies to protect this most endangered dolphin species in South America. A sharp decline, as has already been observed in some populations of the La Plata dolphin further north, must be regarded as alarming.