A Mediterranean seal has been seen in Maltese waters for the first time in decades. The monk seal was spotted in early July in Maltese waters, marking the first occurrence of this species in at least 30 years.
Although native to the Mediterranean, human activities have rendered the species vulnerable, albeit increasing, with an estimated population of fewer than 1,000 individuals.
The last official sighting of a monk seal in Malta was recorded in the late 1990s, according to the Environment and Resources Authority.
Andrew Galea and Mario Muscat captured the rare sighting on camera. The monk seal, known locally as il-bumerin, il-foka monaka, or il-monka, has brought joy to conservationists and biologists.
Marine biologist Prof. Alan Deidun from the UM’s Department of Geosciences, celebrated the seal's presence in Maltese waters as a "welcome return" on Facebook, expressing gratitude to Galea and Muscat for documenting the event.
Highlighting the seal's endangered status, Deidun noted its susceptibility to boat collisions, persecution, light pollution at night, and human disruptions in its breeding areas.
The species is now believed to be mainly confined to the coastal regions of Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey.