The dugong is a large sea animal. The majority of dugongs live in the northern waters of Australia. The dugong is heavily dependent on sea grasses and is thus restricted to the coastal areas where they grow. The largest numbers of dugongs can be found in wide, shallow, protected areas such as bays. Basically, they need clean, clear water at the appropriate depth, suitable food, and access to the sea for warmth.

Man has hunted the dugong for thousands of years, often for its meat and oil. Now, many dugong populations are close to disappearing. Despite legal protection, the main causes of population decrease still include hunting, as well as loss of environment. With its slow rate of reproduction, the dugong is now in great danger. In addition, dugongs are threatened by storms, and by natural enemies such as sharks, and killer whales. The word "dugong" derives from a Malay word which denotes a "lady of the sea". Other common local names include "sea cow", and "sea pig".

Populations of dugong used to cover all of the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. Before 1970, large populations were also present around coastal Kenya. On January 22, 2003, an individual was found off the coast of Tanzania. Dugongs in the Persian Gulf region have been threatened by repeated conflicts, such as between the USA and Iraq,  which have resulted in large oil spills. The current population of Gulf dugongs is probably around 7500.

Dugongs are referred to as 'sea cows' because they mainly eat sea grass. They will also go to any fresh water sources for drinking. Without these fresh water sources, many would not survive. The number of these fresh water sources, however, is beginning to decline and the population is therefore predicted to decrease further.

 Furthermore, the sea grass beds which the dugong depend on for food are threatened by agricultural and industrial run off. And due to their shallow water feeding habits, motor vessels frequently injure or kill them.

Lately, the US and Japanese governments wanted to build a new base close to Okinawa. This plan has generated strong protests from Okinawans who are concerned that the local environment, home to the dugong, would be disrupted and ruined.

There are only 5 dugongs that are held in captivity in the world. Two are in Japan; the third, named Gracie, is in Singapore; and the other two are found in Sea World, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.

In short, it remains unclear for how long this remarkable animal can continue to survive, given the number of threats it faces.