Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Dugong
Scientific name: Dugong dugon
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: TRIYCHIDAE
Group: Marine mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01-31.12
Gestation: 45 à 60 jours
Births: 31.12-15.01
Habitat:
Shallow coastal waters
Description:
The Dugong is a marine mammal and herbivore primarily found in warm, shallow coastal waters of the Indian Ocean and Pacific. Closely related to manatees, it is more agile, with a streamlined body designed for swimming. The Dugong feeds on seagrasses, primarily seagrass species, which it pulls from the ocean floor. Although a protected species, the Dugong is threatened by habitat loss, pollution, accidental fishing, and climate change.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the Dugong using a telephoto lens to capture its streamlined body and fluid movements in the water. When taking the shot, favor calm periods, early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the water is clear and the light is soft. Avoid getting too close to avoid disturbing the animal. Patience is key to observing this discreet mammal.
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