From 5 to 11 March 2024, Mr. Chinnakorn Thongchai, a scientist from the Center for Scientific and Technological Equipment, Walailak University, in collaboration with the Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center (Lower Andaman Sea), conducted an aerial and drone survey to study the population and distribution of endangered marine animals in Trang Province.

During the survey, a line transect sampling method was applied while flying over the Trang Islands with volunteer pilot Mr. Eduardo Angelo Loigorri, and a boat-based drone survey was conducted around Koh Talibong, Koh Mook, and neighboring islands.

The preliminary results recorded:

• 36 dugongs, including 1 mother-calf pair, grazing on seagrass.
• 6 Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, including 2 mother-calf pairs.
• 38 sea turtles, all appearing healthy with no injuries from fishing gear or marine debris.

The presence of mother-calf pairs among dugongs suggests a growing population in the area, while the observations of healthy dolphins and sea turtles indicate a relatively safe and thriving marine environment.

This initiative reflects working directly through research and engagement with industries on technologies or practices that enable the marine industry to minimise or prevent damage to aquatic ecosystems.