BASIC FACTS

They are found in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea and today the population is probably is less than 500. Their main diet is fish and octopus. This species of monk seal is one of the world's rarest mammals and can get up to 6 feet (1.8 m) in length and can weigh up to 400 pounds (182 kg). They have a life span of about 23 years. Their scientific name is Monachus monachus.

BABIES

The monk seal population grows slowly since females only have babies every other year. They have babies from May - November and their gestation period is 11 months. The babies weigh 45 lbs and are 3 feet long when they are born.

Feeding Time

WHY ENDANGERED

Mediterranean monk seals are endangered because of persecution by fishermen and because skin divers disturb the seals last remaining refuges. Over fishing can reduce their food supply and they can get caught in nets. The increased usage of motor boats, the increase of fishing and the area involved, increased tourism, coastal construction, marine pollution and dynamite fishing are all part of the disturbance of the monk seals and their habitat.

HOW TO HELP

If you go on a holiday to the Mediterranean, DO NOT go on a tour that says they will visit a monk seal cave because the commotion scares them away. If you see a monk seal, leave it alone. Make a donation at www.ifaw.org.

Dimitris - rescued monk seal pup