Human Activities:
* Habitat Loss and Degradation: Coastal development, dredging, and pollution destroy dugong habitats like seagrass meadows.
* Fishing Gear Entanglement: Dugongs can become entangled in fishing nets and lines, leading to drowning or injury.
* Boat Strikes: Collisions with boats, especially high-speed vessels, can cause fatal injuries.
* Hunting and Poaching: Though illegal, some areas still face hunting pressure for meat and other products.
* Climate Change: Ocean warming and acidification negatively impact seagrass meadows, their primary food source.
Natural Causes:
* Predation: Sharks and crocodiles can prey on dugongs, but this is relatively rare.
* Disease: Dugongs are susceptible to various diseases, including bacterial infections and parasites.
It's crucial to note that:
* Killing dugongs is illegal and unethical. They are a vital part of marine ecosystems and deserve protection.
* We must focus on conservation efforts to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.
If you are interested in learning more about dugongs and how to help them, I recommend visiting reputable organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) or the Dugong and Seagrass Conservation Project (DSC).