The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), one of the rarest marine mammals on the planet, appears to be finding its last strong refuge in Greece. Protected in antiquity by Poseidon and Apollo, Mediterranean monk seals once lived in large colonies along the entire Mediterranean coastline. That picture has since changed dramatically, with an estimated global population of only around 600 individuals remaining.

However, the latest developments are encouraging for the conservation of the species in Greece. MOm, analyzing data from the 2025 breeding season, reports unexpectedly positive results, with a record 21 births recorded in the National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades—the highest number documented in the past 40 years.

“Despite having 37 consecutive years of experience monitoring the species, we continue to be impressed by the data each new year brings. This is reflected not only in the increasing number of births but also in the increasingly frequent use of open beaches,” MOm notes, emphasizing that “in recent years we have been witnessing an impressive recovery of Mediterranean monk seal populations in Greece.”

At the same time, the organization describes as “impressive” the number of recorded newborns originating from new breeding areas. “We continue with satisfaction to monitor, record, and protect this unique species of the Greek seas,” the statement concludes.