In a race against time, an amateur conservationist is harnessing the power of social media and drone technology to try and save one of Thailand's most beloved and critically endangered marine mammals.
The Man with a Rare Bond
Theerasak 'Pop' Saksritawee is not a formally trained marine biologist, but he has forged a unique connection with Thailand's dwindling population of dugongs. These gentle, slow-moving sea creatures, often called 'sea cows', are facing a dire crisis. With dugong fatalities on the rise, Pop has dedicated himself to their survival, working in close partnership with professional scientists at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre.
Technology Meets Traditional Conservation
Pop's primary tool in this modern conservation battle is his drone. He uses it to track the movements of the elusive dugongs across their coastal habitats, gathering vital data that supports the centre's research. His work, however, goes far beyond observation. A core part of his mission involves the active restoration of their disappearing seagrass habitat. Seagrass meadows are the dugong's sole food source, and their loss, driven by pollution, coastal development, and climate change, is pushing the species towards extinction.
Translating Science for a Digital Audience
Where Pop truly makes his mark is in his role as a translator. He takes complex scientific concepts and the urgent findings from the field and communicates them to thousands of followers online. Through engaging social media content, he raises a stark alarm about the interconnected threats of climate change, pollution, and habitat loss. His message is clear: without immediate and concerted action, Thailand's dugongs could vanish forever.
This story highlights a new frontier in environmental protection, where passionate individuals can leverage digital platforms to amplify critical conservation work. Pop's collaboration bridges the gap between academic research and public awareness, creating a powerful advocate for a species that has few others. His efforts underscore a global truth: saving vulnerable wildlife requires not just science, but also compelling storytelling and public engagement.
