26/08/2026
On July 31, 2026, SAD-AFAG AFBİKA shared a sighting of a Mediterranean monk seal. Every sighting of such a rare species is important, but this one provided significant insights on three distinct issues and highlighted just how crucial conservation efforts are.
First, our SAD-AFAG Antalya Representative, Kemal Macit, took all necessary precautions in a coordinated effort to ensure the seal could rest undisturbed in its secluded coastal den. Erenalp Macit, a member of the team, and nature enthusiast Begüm Şafak—who first recorded the sighting—ensured the seal could remain in its cave and sleep undisturbed from July 31 through the night until midday on August 1.
This observation and monitoring event also demonstrated once again that Mediterranean monk seals use coastal crevices—which are quite open and receive daylight—rather than being confined to caves. Monk seals emerging onto the land along unpaved coastlines actually use these crevices, and even open (quiet and peaceful) shorelines, more frequently than caves.
Finally, this incident once again highlighted just how important our remaining (last) unspoiled, undeveloped coastlines are—not only for seals but also for sea turtles, otters, seabirds, and Posidonia seagrass meadows.
We extend our endless gratitude to Kemal, Erenalp, and Begüm for their efforts in this case.
