An amateur conservationist and social media influencer is harnessing technology and his online platform in a desperate bid to save one of Thailand's most beloved marine creatures from extinction.
The Man with a Rare Bond
Theerasak 'Pop' Saksritawee has forged an extraordinary connection with Thailand's population of dugongs. These gentle, grazing sea mammals, often called 'sea cows', are now classified as critically endangered in the region. With the number of dugong fatalities rising alarmingly, Pop has dedicated himself to becoming their unlikely guardian, translating complex marine science into urgent, digestible content for his thousands of followers.
Science and Social Media in Tandem
Pop does not work alone. He collaborates closely with researchers at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, using his drone to track the movements and health of remaining dugong populations. This aerial perspective provides invaluable data that aids scientific study and conservation planning.
However, his mission extends far beyond observation. A primary focus is the active restoration of the dugongs' rapidly disappearing seagrass meadows. These underwater pastures are the dugong's sole food source, and their loss, driven by coastal development, pollution, and climate change, is pushing the species to the brink.
An Urgent Alarm for a Global Audience
Through his social media channels, Pop raises a stark warning about the interconnected threats facing dugongs. He highlights how climate change, pollution, and direct habitat loss are creating a perfect storm that could see Thailand's dugongs vanish forever. His work bridges the gap between the laboratory and the public, making the plight of these marine mammals a relatable and pressing issue.
Pop's story is a powerful example of modern conservation, where citizen science and digital storytelling amplify traditional research. It underscores a critical race against time to address environmental degradation before yet another iconic species is lost from Thailand's waters.
