Scientific Name – Dugong dugon

Classification – Dugong

Gender Names – Male – bull; Female – cow; Baby – calf

Collective Noun – Herd

Length/Size – 2.7m – 3m (8.9ft – 9.8ft)

Weight – 150kg – 400kg (330lbs – 880lbs)

Top Speed – 22km/h (13mph)

Life Expectancy – 50 – 70 years; up to 73 in captivity

Mating Season – Year round

Gestation Period – 13–15 months

Special Features – The tail is forked

Social Structure – Very social species found in groups varying from 2 to 200 individuals. Smaller groups usually consist of a female and calf pair

Geographical Distribution – East Africa and South Asia, Southern Pacific outside of Australia, Northern Pacific, Australia

Natural Habitat – Warmer tropical waters and sea grass forests

World Population – Around 7,500

Conservation Status –Vulnerable

Diet – Sea Grass, Algae, Flowers

Predators – Human, Sharks, Crocodile