​The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), once teetering on the brink of extinction, is making a notable recovery in Greek waters. Conservation efforts initiated in the 1980s, combined with public education campaigns, have been pivotal in this resurgence. The Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal (MOm) has been at the forefront, operating the region’s sole rehabilitation center for these seals. A recent success story is Panagis, an orphaned seal pup found near Cyprus, who was nurtured back to health at MOm’s facility and is now poised for release. The monk seal population has rebounded to approximately 800 individuals globally, with nearly half residing in Greek waters. This revival underscores the effectiveness of dedicated conservation initiatives and highlights the importance of safeguarding marine ecosystems to ensure the species’ continued survival. ​

Source: ABC.net.AU