Urgent conservation measures are needed to protect the Mediterranean monk seal, whose population along Türkiye’s coasts is estimated to be fewer than 140 individuals.
On 22 March, International Seal Day, the importance of safeguarding the habitats of the endangered Mediterranean monk seal was once again highlighted. A recent incident in Gazipaşa brought renewed attention to the species’ ongoing struggle for survival in coastal caves despite growing human pressure.
The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), one of the rarest marine mammals in the world, continues to persist along Türkiye’s coasts. However, coastal caves — which are among the species’ most critical habitats today — are increasingly threatened by human disturbance.
In a statement issued on the occasion of International Seal Day, the Mediterranean Conservation Society (AKD) emphasised that human activities in coastal caves used by monk seals for resting and pupping tend to increase as the tourism season approaches.
Through long-term scientific monitoring efforts conducted along the coasts of Foça, Muğla and Antalya, AKD identifies which caves are used by monk seals at different times of the year. Studies carried out using camera traps and remote monitoring systems demonstrate that these caves are essential for the species’ life cycle.
Although the Mediterranean monk seal is a marine mammal, it relies on coastal caves for resting, giving birth and caring for its pups. During the pupping period, even minimal human presence inside or near these caves can pose serious risks to both mothers and pups. Despite legal prohibitions on entering monk seal caves in Türkiye, disturbances may still occur due to tour boats, diving activities or curious visitors.
Legal Protection Exists — Yet Effective Conservation Remains a Challenge
Entering coastal caves inhabited by Mediterranean monk seals is prohibited under regulations issued pursuant to the Fisheries Law No. 1380. Diving, swimming or accessing these caves by any type of marine vessel, as well as waiting or anchoring at cave entrances, are all banned under current legislation.
Furthermore, hunting or harming Mediterranean monk seals is prohibited under the Terrestrial Hunting Law No. 4915, while the protection of endangered species and their habitats is also safeguarded by the Animal Protection Law No. 5199.
The Mediterranean Conservation Society stresses that increasing public awareness and limiting human activities in areas where coastal caves are located are essential to ensuring the protection of monk seal habitats.
If You Encounter a Mediterranean Monk Seal
The Mediterranean Conservation Society highlights several key precautions to minimise disturbance and ensure the safety of monk seals:
Do not enter caves: Coastal caves used by monk seals for resting and pupping are critical for the species’ survival and are protected by law. Do not attempt to access these areas from land or sea.
Keep a safe distance: Do not approach monk seals. Maintain a safe distance to avoid causing stress and calmly leave the area.
Stay quiet: Loud noises, sudden movements or any form of human interaction may pose risks to the animals. Do not attempt to touch or feed monk seals.
Report your observations: If you encounter a Mediterranean monk seal, you can contribute to monitoring and identification efforts by reporting your sighting to the Mediterranean Conservation Society Hotline (+90 531 721 2008).
AKD representatives underline that “Coastal caves must remain quiet and safe for Mediterranean monk seals to survive. These caves are their home. Protecting them is a shared responsibility.”