Updates On 18th Mar 2015

OUR WILD NEIGHBOURS: DUGONG

Once they were the legendary mermaids of the ocean.

Meet the graceful dugongs (Dugong dugon).

Another name for these aquatic herbivores is the �sea cow�, as they feed on a diet of vegetation – mainly seagrass – at a rate of up to 50kg a day.

Dugongs do not have fins, which easily distinguishes them from other marine mammals, especially the dolphin, despite being similar in size and shape to some degree.

Dugongs love the warm shallow waters, and if you are lucky enough to spot one in the wild feeding on a buffet of wild sea grass, watch how these gentle dugongs will shake their heads a little, to get all the sand off their food!

Do you think these gentle creatures are native to Singapore�s waters? Yes they are! Dugongs have in fact been sighted in the sea around Singapore! Individuals have been sighted off Changi, around Pulau Ubin, Pulau Tekong and Labrador. Have you seen any dugongs here in Singapore? Share your experience with us; we�d love to hear to hear all about it!

#ACRES #SingaporeNativeWildlife

Source: https://www.facebook.com/ACRESasia/photos/a.223077136522.136..

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ACRES

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based charity and Institution of Public Character, founded by Singaporeans in 2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare.

ACRES has six focus areas: Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Wildlife Crime Investigation, Zoo Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Community Outreach and Promoting Cruelty-Free Living.

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