Mediterranean Monk Seals (Monachus monachus) are mammals that are close to extinction. In nature, they number just a few hundred mammals. They are 2.5 meters long and about 350 kilograms in weight. Its diet consists mainly of fish and shellfish.
For many years, the Mediterranean Monk Seal disappeared from our area. However, recently, this rare creature has been spotted a number of times along the Israeli coast near Rosh Haniqra (as well as other beaches). Baby Mediterranean Monk seals are raised in caves and grottoes that have underwater openings, similar to those along the coast at Rosh Haniqra. Repeated sightings in addition to the fact that their mating season is approaching, caused the authorities to make a decision. They began to search for sites (especially near the areas of Rosh Haniqra and Herzeliya) with small, hidden caves along the Israeli coast that would be suitable for the rest and/or use of the female after giving birth and to set-up cameras that will teach us more about this endangered species.
Maya Elsar is a resident of Rosh Haniqra and underwater researcher at IMMRAC (Israel Marine Mammal Research & Assistance Center) as well as being involved in studying this rare creature, recommended reading an article by Erez Erlichman in YNET. Accoring to Elsar, Erlichman “did an excellent job of collecting information on this subject.”
Causes of Endangerment
- Hunting – In the past, Mediterranean Monk Seals were massively slaughtered for food by early seafaring explorers and native peoples alike. Today, fisher-people who see it as competition for food fish sometimes kill them.
- Pollution – Pollution, particularly human waste, fouls the water and kills the monk seal’s food. In addition, tons of industrial and agricultural pollutants and sediments flow into the Mediterranean from its feeder rivers and streams.
- Disturbance by Humans – The monk seal is a shy animal and is easily disturbed by humans. Continued population growth of Mediterranean countries brings increased beach use, boat traffic, and overfishing of the monk seal’s prey. Long-line and net fisheries also injure and drown monk seals.
Photographer: Hagai Karp, Rosh Haniqra
