Trang: A crucial mission to protect the dugongs of Thai waters is underway, as the Marine Park Research Center Region 3 utilizes drones to survey these marine mammals. The initiative aims to gather essential research data to support sustainable conservation efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, the Marine National Park Research and Study Center 3 in Trang conducted a comprehensive aerial survey from August 11-17, 2026. The survey focused on the dugong population and their seagrass bed habitats in Hat Chao Mai National Park, Trang Province, and Mu Ko Lanta National Park, Krabi Province. Over seven days of continuous monitoring during high tide, the team identified 11 dugongs in key locations. These included five dugongs, featuring a mother-calf pair, on Koh Muk (south), two on Hat Yong Lam (south), one at the mouth of Khlong Yong Ling, one on Koh Muk (north), one on Hat Yong Lam, and one on Koh Ngai.
The survey's observations and aerial photographs provided insights into the dugongs' health and behavior. Most of the animals were found to have a Body Condition Score of 3/5, indicating moderate health, and an average respiratory rate of approximately three breaths per five minutes. The dugongs were seen exhibiting natural behaviors, such as swimming, foraging in seagrass beds, and raising their young. This valuable data will contribute to monitoring their status, analyzing habitat use patterns, and creating a marine resource database to enhance future conservation planning and sustainable dugong management.