Mediterranean monk seals face habitat loss in Antalya

Mediterranean monk seals, a critically endangered species, are increasingly forced into caves due to human pressure. While the global population has risen to approximately 800-900 individuals, the population along the Turkish coast consists of about 120 adults living in scattered locations.

Research indicates that three-quarters of seal deaths are caused by human factors, with entanglement in fishing nets being the primary cause of mortality. Other significant threats include human interference and disease.

In response, the Alanya Nature Conservation and National Parks Directorate has established a protection and inventory working group. Experts have been cleaning registered caves and adjusting sand structures to create suitable breeding and sheltering conditions. Additionally, camera traps have been installed to monitor adults and pups, and warning signs have been placed at cave entrances to mitigate human impact.