Turkey secures new protected habitat for endangered Mediterranean seals in Kemer

In the Kemer district of Antalya, Turkey, authorities have designated a coastal cave at Döküntü Bay as a protected breeding and living site for the endangered Mediterranean seal. The project, led by the Kemer district governorate in cooperation with the Turkish Coast Guard unit TCSG‑33 and the Underwater Research Association’s Mediterranean Seal Research Group, followed an initial survey in July 2025 that confirmed active seal usage of the cave.

On 23 May 2026 a physical barrier was installed at the cave entrance to prevent vessels and people from entering, and bilingual warning signs were placed to raise awareness. The measures aim to reduce human disturbance, safeguard the species’ natural habitat, and support regional biodiversity.

The effort reflects coordinated local government and scientific collaboration to protect vulnerable marine wildlife in Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.