The population of monk seals keeps increasing at Cap Blanc. Sixteen baby monk seals were born between January and June 2011 - six more compared to the same period last year. These are the current results of the intense monitoring, carried out by members of EuroNatur’s partner CBD Habitat for many years.
The protective measures show results: the population of monk seals at Cap Blanc is increasing.
© CBD HabitatThe positive development of the population is thanks to the long-term, persistent efforts by CBD Habitat, who are, amongst others, supported by EuroNatur. The seal conservationists have developed an extended protection programme, with which they continuously monitor the population of marine mammals and keep them trouble-free. The close cooperation with the local fishermen contributed significantly to the success: already in 2011, they agreed to designate an area at the “Costa de las Focas” where fishing should not be allowed. In this six-kilometre-wide part of the coast, there are caves, in which monk seals breed their offspring.
While there is hardly any interference by coastal fishermen at the Cap Blanc these days, industrial fishing near the protection zone is still a severe threat for the population of monk seals. Fish trawlers repeatedly get closer than the permitted 12 sea miles and skim the food of the seals. There is also a great danger that the marine mammals get into the nets and drown.
Read more out EuroNatur projects for the protection of monk seals.