Rare Mediterranean Monk Seals Are Making a Comeback in Cyprus

The population of one of the world’s rarest marine mammals, the Mediterranean monk seal, is gradually recovering along the shores of Cyprus.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, an estimated 20–22 individuals now inhabit the island’s waters, with the species showing encouraging signs of stability.

Over the past 14 years, monk seals have been giving birth almost every year—something that had never been recorded in Cyprus before.

Haralambos Nicolaou, head of the ministry’s monk seal monitoring program, told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) that two to three seal pups are born on the island annually.

Births have been observed in multiple locations, from Akamas to Cape Greco, suggesting that the seals are adapting well to different coastal environments.

To support conservation efforts, a national database has been created to track seal activity. This system collects data from fishermen, marine specialists, and the general public.

However, despite the positive developments, the population size remains relatively stable due to natural mortality.

For example, two pups were born in late 2024 and early 2025, but tragically, one mother died during childbirth.

Studies conducted in Cyprus and Greece indicate that the highest mortality rates occur among seal pups under two years old.

Conservationists are urging the public to observe these rare animals only from a distance, never attempting to approach them.

They also advise against entering sea caves, which serve as critical shelter and breeding grounds for the seals. Since 2011, all known seal caves have been mapped and equipped with monitoring cameras.

To further protect the species, restrictions have been implemented in key habitats. Fishing and boating are prohibited near designated seal caves, and construction above these areas is strictly banned.