Mediterranean monk seal in Massa Lubrense: a rare encounter to experience with respect

In recent years, the presence of the Mediterranean monk seal along the Italian coasts has sparked great interest — especially when sightings occur in unexpected or popular areas. Even in Massa Lubrense, at the heart of the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area, there have been rare and fascinating encounters with this extraordinary marine mammal.

A precious species for the marine ecosystem

The monk seal plays a key role in coastal ecosystems, contributing to the balance of the food chain and the overall health of marine habitats. Its presence is also an important indicator of environmental quality: where monk seals live, the environment is generally clean and well preserved.Protecting this species therefore means safeguarding the coasts, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters it inhabits.

Once widespread throughout the Mediterranean basin, the monk seal — known to the Romans as the “old man of the sea” — is now critically endangered. Today, only around 800 individuals are estimated to remain.

Characteristics and behavior

This marine mammal prefers warm, calm waters and is often described as shy and elusive. It tends to avoid human contact and usually lives alone — one of the reasons why sightings are so rare.

It can be easily recognized by its rounded snout, wide-set eyes, and long whiskers. Scars on its body are common: in males, they often result from territorial fights, while in females they are typically caused during mating.

Recent sightings of the monk seal

In recent months, the monk seal has been spotted in several locations along the Campania coast.The first sighting was recorded on April 25, when the animal was observed off Punta Campanella, right within the Marine Protected Area. A few days later, on May 1, another sighting occurred along the coast of Capri. Both events were captured in videos sent to the Punta Campanella MPA and ISPRA (Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research), which confirmed the seal’s identity.Most recently, on May 28, 2025, a monk seal was sighted once again — this time in the waters off Positano.

A marine treasure worth protecting

The monk seal is the only remaining pinniped species in the Mediterranean Sea.
To protect it means to defend the biodiversity of our seas and preserve a symbol of ecological balance.

Unfortunately, human activity represents its greatest threat: overfishing, accidental captures, disturbance in resting areas, and marine pollution all seriously endanger its survival.
Learning to observe and respect this animal is the first step toward helping it.

How to behave if you spot a monk seal

The WWF has drawn up ten simple rules to follow in case of a sighting:

1. Keep a distance of at least 50 meters.
2. Do not drive the seal away from its natural environment.
3. Keep pets at a distance.
4. If the animal is injured or in distress, don’t intervene alone.
5. Avoid direct contact.
6. Refrain from loud noises or sudden movements.
7. Don’t leave food or litter behind.
8. If you notice visible injuries, don’t approach — take photos or videos from afar.
9. Immediately alert the Monk Seal Group (GFM) or the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area.
10. Contribute to conservation: take part in monitoring projects and spread awareness.

The monk seal is an extraordinary creature that, though rare, still inhabits our seas.
Its return to Campania is a powerful reminder that nature can recover when treated with respect. Learning to know and protect this species is both a duty and a privilege — for residents, tourists, and sea lovers alike. Only in this way can we continue to experience the thrill of such a rare and precious encounter.