Greece's population of Mediterranean monk seals, half of the global total, is under pressure from a surge in unregulated tourism, conservationists warn. The rare marine mammals, once hunted for their pelts and blubber, are now disturbed by day-trippers and private yachts entering their cave habitats.
The National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades, Greece's largest marine protected area, is a critical breeding ground. Strict rules keep boats three miles from Piperi island, where only researchers may land. However, elsewhere, the booming leisure industry is causing negative impacts on the sensitive seals.
Efforts to protect the species include Seal Greece, a national education campaign, and a no-entry zone around Formicula islet in the Ionian Sea. Two large-scale marine protected areas are planned, though management details remain unclear.
Conservation groups like MOm have rescued over 40 orphaned or injured seals since the 1980s. Rehabilitated females have been seen with pups, boosting recovery. But caves, where seals now breed to avoid humans, often prove dangerous for pups, which can be washed away.
“A week after giving birth, monk seal mothers go fishing, leaving their pup alone for hours,” said Panos Dendrinos, president of MOm. “If someone goes inside, the pup is liable to panic and abandon the cave.”
