Mediterranean Monk Seal

The Mediterranean monk seal is one of the most endangered and rare animals on the planet. Today its global population is estimated to be 600, with 250-300 of these individuals living in scattered locations around Greece. The rest of the population is found in different parts of the Mediterranean and on some islands in the Atlantic. This species prefers coastal areas, particularly isolated, rocky and inaccessible islets. It feeds on various species of crustacean and cephalopod. The dramatic decrease in its population is mainly due to the activities of humans. In the past it was hunted for its fur and fat, while today it is persecuted by fishermen, who see it as a pest. Adults are deliberately killed and may also become accidentally entangled in fishing nets.