Catering for our volunteers

We are regularly looking for and need volunteers to strengthen our teams in South America. These people already have specialist knowledge and appropriate training and are important for the work in our species conservation projects. YAQU PACHA's aim is to employ these specialists in our projects on a long-term basis.

1 hour research boat

Observation and photo-identification of Lahille's bottlenose dolphins in the Lagoa dos Patos in Brazil with our research boat Charlotte. These trips take place regularly and are very important for the assessment of the population in the Lagoa dos Patos. The photo-ID method is based on the distinguishing feature of the dolphins' dorsal fin, as this is different for each animal. This allows individual animals to be identified and the total population to be estimated. With the help of a database, the animals can be recognized and sightings registered.

Flight count La Plata dolphins Uruguay

A very important part of the conservation of the La Plata dolphins are the flight counts - Aerial Surveys, which are carried out by aircraft with specially curved windows from which the animals are counted.

These flight counts were conducted along the coast of Uruguay in March and April 2023 and are critical for determining the population of 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 aerial counts are shared with the partner institutions involved in the project. Regular aerial counts are important to detect population fluctuations and to develop new strategies for the protection of this most threatened dolphin species in South America. A strong decline, as already observed in some populations of the La Plata dolphin further north, must be considered alarming.

Beach nourishment on the Brazilian coast

Our teams regularly search the beaches along the Brazilian coast for stranded animals. Live animals are immediately brought to our stations in special transport boxes, where they receive immediate medical treatment and care. Dead stranded animals are also recovered to be examined and the cause of death determined.

Veterinary care

Continuous veterinary care and treatment is crucial for the survival of the stranded and rescued La Plata dolphins. Any deterioration in their health must be recognized immediately and treated accordingly by specially trained veterinarians.