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

Observation and photo identificationof Lahille's bottlenose dolphins in Lagoa dos Patos, Brazil, with our research boat Charlotte. These trips take place regularly and are very important for recording the population in Lagoa dos Patos. The photo ID method is based on the distinctive characteristics of the dolphins' dorsal fins, as these are 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 recorded.

A very important part of species conservation for La Plata dolphins is aerial surveys, which are carried out using aircraft 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 La Plata dolphins in Uruguay.

This allows population declines to be detected immediately, which is extremely important 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 for detecting population fluctuations and developing 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.

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

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 identified immediately and treated accordingly by specially trained veterinarians.