Dugong (Duyung)
Dugong dugon
Dugongs are shy marine mammals that spend their days grazing seagrass in shallow, protected bays. Sightings are uncommon in the Togeans — they surface briefly to breathe before dropping back down to continue feeding, leaving muddy trails through seagrass beds.
Where you might see it
Look for them in sheltered bays with healthy seagrass meadows, typically 2-6 meters deep. Sightings are rare and unpredictable — they're present in Togean waters but highly sensitive to disturbance and avoid areas with boat traffic.
How to spot it
Scan seagrass beds for disturbed sediment trails where they've been feeding. Watch for a large gray shape moving slowly near the bottom, or nostrils briefly breaking the surface before they submerge again. Movement is slow and deliberate.
Responsible Encounter Guidelines
- •Maintain significant distance — any closer and you'll drive them away.
- •Never come between a mother and calf — they're extremely protective.
- •If it dives when you approach, you're too close — back off immediately.
- •Keep noise minimal and group size small to reduce disturbance.
Gallery
Conservation Status
IUCN: Vulnerable; threatened by seagrass loss and net entanglement.