return to the ocean
DUGONG
A GENTLE GIANT OF OUR COASTAL WATERS — AND A VITAL INDICATOR OF SEAGRASS HEALTH.
DUGONG DUGON
meet the animal
about the DUGONG
Dugongs are gentle marine mammals found throughout the warm coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific, where they depend heavily on healthy seagrass meadows for food and shelter. As specialist grazers, they play an important role in shaping seagrass ecosystems and are closely connected to the health of the coastal habitats they inhabit.
Despite their calm nature, dugongs face growing pressure from habitat loss, boat strikes, fishing activity and declining seagrass. Once widespread across their range, populations are increasingly vulnerable, making conservation and protection of their coastal habitats essential to their survival.
RYAN CHADWICK
meet the artist
Based in the UK, Ryan Chadwick brings this Dugong to life through his distinctive minimalist wildlife illustrations, capturing the animal in remarkable detail while stripping away everything that might distract from the subject. His work focuses on the intricate features that make each species unique — from the texture of their skin to the smallest details of their anatomy.
Ryan’s passion for wildlife and conservation is at the heart of his work, drawing inspiration from the natural world and the wildlife documentaries that first sparked his fascination with animals. By combining meticulous detail with a clean, understated style, he creates artwork that feels both scientifically grounded and beautifully timeless — giving these often overlooked species the attention they deserve.
ORRCA AUSTRALIA
the cause we're supporting
About the ORCCA AUSTRALIA
This design supports ORRCA, the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia, a volunteer organisation dedicated to the rescue, research, conservation and welfare of Australia’s marine mammals. Working along the east coast of Australia, ORRCA’s trained volunteers respond to whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs that are injured, stranded or entangled, while also contributing to research and community education.
ORRCA operates a 24/7 marine mammal rescue hotline and works alongside government agencies, scientists, veterinarians and local communities to respond to animals in distress. Their work extends beyond individual rescues, helping build knowledge of marine mammal populations and threats while training communities to better protect the animals that share Australia’s coastal waters.
