Organization for the Conservation of Aquatic Mammals in Latin America
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To strengthen our teams in South America, we are regularly looking for and need volunteers. They already have previous professional knowledge and appropriate training and are important for the work in our species conservation projects. The goal of YAQU PACHA is to use these specialists in our projects in the long term.
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 registration of the population in the Lagoa dos Patos. The photo ID method is based on the distinguishing feature of the dolphins' dorsal fin, as it is different for each animal. In this way, individual animals can be identified and the total population can be estimated. With the help of a database, the animals can be recognized and sightings registered.
A very important part of the conservation of La Plata dolphins is the flight counts – Aerial Surveys, which are carried out with aircraft with specially arched windows from which the animals are counted.
These flight counts were conducted along the coast of Uruguay in March and April 2023 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 situation of the species. The results of the flight counts are exchanged with the partner institutions involved in the project. Regular aerial counts are important to detect 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 considered alarming.
The beaches on the Brazilian coast are regularly searched by our teams for stranded animals. Live animals are immediately brought to our wards in special transport boxes, where they are immediately given medical care and care. Dead stranded animals are also recovered to examine them and determine the cause of death.
Crucial for the survival of the stranded and rescued La Plata dolphins is continuous veterinary care and care. Any deterioration in health must be detected immediately and treated accordingly by specially trained veterinarians.