Rare Mediterranean Seal Spotted in Croatian Waters
A video showcasing a seal swimming in the Adriatic Sea has captured attention, highlighting the continued vulnerability of a critically endangered marine mammal. The video was posted by the Croatian Institute of Marine Biology, emphasizing the significance of the sighting. Researchers identified the animal as a rare species of seal within the Mediterranean Sea, a creature protected under both national and international conservation agreements.
The Institute issued a clear warning to vessel crews, requesting a reduction in speed near the seal and advising against approaching or disturbing the animal. “We are asking the crews of vessels to slow down near the animal, not to approach it and disturb it, observe it and record it from a safe distance,” the Institute stated. The Mediterranean seal, one of the most endangered marine mammals, can grow up to two meters in length and weigh approximately 300 kilograms.
Scientists estimate the global population to be between 500 and 600 individuals, primarily residing in the Mediterranean, Black, and Baltic Seas. This recent video serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect this vulnerable species. Access to the video requires user consent for social network and third-party content insertion.
Topics: #seal #rare #video
