Malquot the dugong calf is finally home! He was rescued lost at sea in 2019, and after years of rehab, he’s finally ready to start his new life at Yas SeaWorld in Abu Dhabi.

Malquot was found unwell and abandoned by his mother in Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi’s specialised marine species team, helped by experts from the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals Regional Office and Worldwide Zoo Consultants, took him in and gave him the round-the-clock care he needed.

Now, Malquot is all grown up and ready to explore his new home. He traveled in a specially outfitted Marine Wildlife Rescue Vehicle to Yas SeaWorld, where he’ll be able to swim and play with other dugongs, and learn more about his species.

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Malquot’s story is a reminder that there are people out there who care about animals and want to help them. Thanks to the hard work of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and other experts, Malquot has a second chance at life.

Did you know that Abu Dhabi is home to the second-largest population of dugongs in the world?

That’s right, there are about 3,000 of these gentle sea cows swimming around in our waters.

Most of our dugongs can be found near Bu Tinah Island, which is part of the Marawah Biosphere Reserve and Al Yasat Marine Protected Area. These areas are special because they provide dugongs with a safe place to live and breed.

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is working hard to protect dugongs and their habitat. They do this by conducting research, monitoring the population, and educating the public about these amazing animals.

So next time you’re out on the water in Abu Dhabi, keep your eyes peeled for dugongs. They’re a beautiful and important part of our marine ecosystem.

Bonus fun fact: Dugongs are also known as sea cows, and they’re the only herbivorous marine mammals. They love to eat seagrass, which helps to keep seagrass beds healthy.