Dugongs. In the past, dugongs were commonly seen along both coasts of Thailand but now they are mainly reported in the Andaman Sea, where it is estimated there are 200 dugongs, and the Gulf of Thailand. The largest dugong population is in a marine protected area around Koh Libong and Koh Muk, in Trang Province.
Where are you most likely to see a dugong?
These enormous vegetarians can be found in warm coastal waters from East Africa to Australia, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Pacific. Dugongs are related to manatees and are similar in appearance and behavior— though the dugong’s tail is fluked like a whale’s.
How many dugongs are left in Thailand?
Dugongs – closely related to the manatee or sea cow – are officially classified as vulnerable. They can grow up to 3.4 meters (11 feet) in length. Thailand’s population is put at around 250.
What zoos have dugongs?
There are currently only six captive dugongs in the world and two of them – a male called Pig and a female called Wuru – are in Australia, at WILDLIFE Sydney. Dugongs are notoriously difficult to keep in captivity because of their specialised diet – which is substituted with lettuce instead of seagrass in captivity.
Can you eat dugong?
The dugong was a prized source of oil, hide, and meat, and charcoal from their bones was used in sugar refining. The practice was banned in 1965, apart from a limited catch by indigenous Australians, who used dugongs as a food source since before the arrival of European settlers.
Are dugongs aggressive?
Dugongs appear more intensely competitive for females during a much shorter time than manatees, although the level of aggression differs among sites. Only males have erupted tusks. Dugongs may exhibit a more classical kind of lekking in some locations or engage in male–male fights (Anderson, 1997).
Why are dugongs called gentle giants?
Answer: The passage is about dugongs. They are known as gentle giants because they warm-blooded sea animals and are commonly known as sea cows. … Dugongs are related to manatees and are similar in appearance and behavior— though the dugong’s tail is fluked like a whale’s.