In ancient Greece, Mediterranean Monk Seal was placed under the protection of Poseidon, the God of the Sea, and Apollo, the God of the Sun, because Monk Seal showed a great love for sea and sun. The Greek sages, Homer, Plutarch, and Aristotle, immortalized Him in their writings. As long as there have been people living around the Mediterranean, Monk Seal has been a part of their lives.
Instead of ice and snow, Mediterranean Monk Seal has sandy beaches and warm waters to live in. He is called Monk Seal because He is bald and is often alone like a Christian monk. Exceedingly shy, He prefers the company of few friends. Mediterranean Monk Seal runs contrary to modern people’s perceptions of where Seals live.
Mediterranean Monk Seal teaches the fragility of life. Once common to the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, He is now found only small islands and cliffs around rocky coasts, which are inaccessible to people. Cherish life as the people who try to save Monk Seal from extinction.
Mediterranean Monk Seal’s Teachings Include:
“We must act now. By protecting the monk seal, we protect the sea itself.”
Copyright: Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal
Conservation Note: Mediterranean Monk Seal is severely endangered and is protected by international treaties.
Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal is the best place to start in helping to save Mediterranean Monk Seal. Their site is in Greek, with an English language page. For more information in English, go to ABYSSO (Marine Biology, Archaeology, History, Diving) Pages on Monk Seal.
Go On to Elephant Seal's teachings
Go On to Seal Family's teachings
or
Return to Individual Warm-Blooded Ones
Return to the Main Animal Page
Photo of Mediterranean Monk Seals copyrighted by Peter Glogg, Visipix.com
Drawing of Seal and Pup is copyrighted by the Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal
Va. Carper
November 27, 2002