dugongs in palau - C3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report summarizes the results of the dugong component of the multi-partner project—“Crocodile and
Dugong Population Assessments and Management in the Republic of Palau”—conducted between
September 2002 - September 2004. The results of these studies are summarized and assessed in relation to
past studies of Palau’s dugongs.
The dugong population in this archipelago is small and vulnerable to extinction although it still appears to
be reproductively viable. Results from interviews with knowledgeable fishermen, an aerial survey and
sea grass mapping has revealed that the dugong population travels throughout the coastal waters of Palau,
concentrating in two major areas during the day time, idling close to reefs, presumably sheltering from
boat tra ffic and predators. Dugongs appear to be site-specific in their movements, often being seen in the
same locality on subsequent days. However, it appears that dugongs no longer visit some areas, possibly
due to increased boat traffic in those areas.
Legislat ion increasing penalties for killing dugong to $5000-$20,000 has discouraged poachers from
discussi ng hunting openly. In the past, interviews with knowledgeable fishermen, who once hunted
dugong, revealed information about hunting rates and prime hunting areas and times. Interviews
conducted in 2003 revealed that there is a great reluctance to discuss such issues with researchers,
therefore it is difficult to determine any changes in levels of hunting or attitudes towards poaching. Some
seagrass beds are included in no-entry areas in some States for the purpose of sustaining fish and
invertebrate stocks. However, no protected areas exists to protect seagrass beds per se from anthropogenic
impacts from land and/or sea-based activities. The new legislation does require any entity proposing a
new development to include an Environmental Impact Statement considering the potential impact of such
development on dugongs and their habitats.
The priorities for dugong conservation activities in Palau include:
1. Surveillance and Enforcement
• Allocate additional support (personnel, training and funding) towards surveillance and
enforcement efforts at both the national and state levels.
• Investigate the legal and practical feasibility of establishing a reward system for reporting hunting
or possession of dugong, and implement the system if proven feasible.
2. Education
• Initiate a nationwide education and awareness program.
3. Habitat Protection
• Continue targeted studies to better understanding the seagrass habitats to provide a basis for
protection.
• Provide increased protection to the key dugong feeding areas (seagrass beds).
4. Dugong Life History, Status and Management
• The responsibility for dugong research, assessments and management should be progressively
transferred to the Bureau of Marine Resources.
• Information on dugong distributions and status should be continued.
• Efforts should continue to collect information from dugong necropsies.
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