ERA notes with pleasure the recent record from Maltese water of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), which is the only native seal of the Mediterranean region, reported through social media and confirmed by Prof. Alan Deidun.
The Authority notes that this species is native to the Mediterranean and is known in Maltese by the names il‑bumerin, il‑foka monaka or il‑monka, although the latter term was recently also referred by some fishermen to different species of large dolphins and whales – probably as a misnomer noting the increased rarity of the seal in Maltese waters.
The seal is native to Maltese waters, with sporadic records in Maltese waters which reflect its current localised and restricted distribution. Idioms like ‘torqod daqs bumerin’ (literally translated as ‘sleeping like a monk seal’) also indicate their occurrence on land in historical periods in Malta.
Excluding this new sighting, the latest sighting from Maltese waters was in the late 1990s, although, as stated, these are sporadic records. The recent sightings may indicate possible incursions back to the Maltese waters, also noting recent reports off Sicily.
In recorded periods and up until the 20th century, the Mediterranean monk seals had been known to congregate, give birth, and seek refuge on open beaches in various parts of the Mediterranean region. In more recent times, they have left their former habitat and mostly utilise more secluded and protected remote areas and sea caves for these activities, since these are often inaccessible to humans.
This species is classified as vulnerable but increasing by the World Conservation Area (IUCN), with about 500‑1,000 individuals surviving in different parts of the Mediterranean and the adjacent Atlantic area along the archipelago of Madeira and the Cabo Blanco areas. This seal is believed to possibly be the world’s rarest pinniped species, pinnipeds including semi‑aquatic fin‑footed mammals such as a seals, sea lions, elephant seals and walruses.
In view of this, the Mediterranean Monk seal is protected by national and international law. In Malta, it has been legally declared as a protected species since 1992. Capturing, killing, taking, and trading of such monk seals, as well as the deliberate disturbance of these species is prohibited and subject to legal action. The national Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations impose a minimum fine of nearly €500 and going up to nearly €2,400 for every specimen affected.
In view of this new sighting, the general public and sea‑farers are encouraged to act responsibly in case of seal encounters, encouraging immediate report of any observations ERA on over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system.
6 June 2024
