AMONGST THE RAREST SEALS IN THE WORLD
Mediterranean monk seals (Monachus monachus) are among the rarest seals in the world. Once widespread throughout the Mediterranean and Black Seas, as well as along the Atlantic coasts of Southern Europe and North Africa, this species has now mostly disappeared from most of its natural habitats.
A SMALL INDEPENDENT BREEDING POPULATION
Recent sightings of this rare animal off the western coast of Cyprus suggest that its numbers may be recovering. Around 20 of these seals are now thought to be living in the coastal waters and sea caves off the western coast of Cyprus. This represents a small, independent breeding population of one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals.
RARE SIGHTINGS
These seals primarily feed on fish and cephalopods like squid and octopus. They find their prey in coastal shallow waters in and around sea coves. This makes them particularly active in and around the sea caves in the Akamas Peninsula, Cape Gata, and the Peyia area of Paphos. Other recent sightings include a seal swimming in Kato Paphos harbour.
LEGALLY PROTECTED
Classified as endangered by the IUCN Red List, the Mediterranean monk seal has been legally protected in Cyprus since 1971 under the Fisheries Law. Human disturbance of breeding caves, pollution, and accidental entanglement or conflicts with local fisheries, however, continue to threaten their recovery. As a result, conservation groups and authorities are using camera traps to monitor pups and have undertaken marine cave restoration projects to improve their habitats.
