The Mediterranean monk seal is the No1 endangered marine mammal in Europe and it is also in the top 6 list of the most critically endangered mammals on earth and in the top 12 most critically endangered animals world-wide.
The Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus monachus is one of 34 Pinniped species in the world and the only species of Phocidae living in subtropical waters. The other two Monachus species are the Hawaiian monk seal Monachus schauinslandi, also critically endangered, and the Caribbean monk seal Monachus tropicalis, which is considered extinct.
Today, the Mediterranean monk seal is one of the rarest seal species and one of the six most critically endangered mammals on our planet. According to available data, the largest global population of the species lives and breeds in Greek seas while accounting for approximately 90% of the European population of the species.
According to past estimates, the size of the monk seal population in Greece is between 200-500 seals. More recent data indicates a population of 200-250 seals.
Another significant monk seal population within the European Union exists in the Madeira island complex, consisting of around 20 seals.
The Mediterranean monk seal population is widely distributed along the Greek coastline.
Monk seals (Monachus Monachus) are sometime seen along the costs of Hydra. Recently, a seal was sited swimming in Hydra’s Harbour.
It is said that the island Foka (one of the several uninhabited islands around Hydra)is a breeding place for monk seals.
This beautiful photo is taken from a very interesting and informative blog full of customs,habits and news of Hydra island.Too bad, is in greek :
http://hydra-hydrea-hydroussa.blogspot.gr
