# Mediterranean monk seal habitat and conservation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mediterranean-monk-seal-habitat-and-conservation > Updated: 2026-08-29T10:44:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Recent sightings and monitoring of the rare Mediterranean monk seal have highlighted both the potential for habitat use and the threats posed by human activity in the Mediterranean region. In the Adriatic Sea near Zadar, Croatia, the sighting of a monk seal was noted as a significant event. Researchers from the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries in Split suggested the appearance is encouraging, indicating that the Adriatic may maintain necessary conditions such as food availability for the species. While scientists cautioned these may be temporary visits, they noted that a permanent return would require stable habitats and undisturbed coastal areas. In the Izmir Gulf, Turkey, camera trap footage captured by the Karaburun Local Seal Committee and the Underwater Research Association - Mediterranean Monk Seal Research Group (SAD-AFAG) revealed human encroachment into critical habitats. The footage showed individuals entering caves used for resting, sheltering, and birthing, including an instance where a seal family fled into the sea in panic due to a person’s presence. Authorities reminded the public that entering these caves is prohibited by law and warned of physical risks to humans, such as rockfalls. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-29: Mediterranean monk seals face human pressure in Izmir Gulf Camera traps in Turkey's Izmir Gulf have captured human encroachment into Mediterranean monk seal habitats, causing seal families to flee and prompting calls for stricter adherence to conservation laws. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mediterranean-monk-seals-face-human-pressure-in-izmir-gulf ### 2026-08-24: Mediterranean monk seal sighted near Zadar, Croatia A rare Mediterranean monk seal has been spotted near Zadar, Croatia, offering hope to scientists that the Adriatic Sea still provides sufficient food and conditions for the endangered species. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mediterranean-monk-seal-sighted-near-zadar-croatia --- Cite as: Mediterranean monk seal habitat and conservation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mediterranean-monk-seal-habitat-and-conservation