| Publication Type: | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication: | 1999 |
| Authors: | Adamantopoulou, S., Androukaki, E., Kotomatas, S. |
| Journal: | Contributions to the Zoogeography and Ecology of the Eastern Mediterranean Region |
| Volume: | 1 |
| Pagination: | 399-404 |
| Keywords: | distribution, information, network, δίκτυο, κατανομή, πληροφοριών |
| Abstract: | This study is an attempt to determine the distribution of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) in Greece. This work is part of a larger project established in 1990, the Rescue and Information Network, which consists of a network of more than 700 contacts in coastal Greece and with which there is continuous direct and indirect communication. The data used were informati.on collected in the field or received, relative to monk seal sightings from throughout the country. The data include the date and location of observation, as well as, other details on the description of the animal, its behavior, and others. During the study period (1991-1995), we collected in total, 540 reports of alive seal observations and 79 reports of dead seals. The results indicate that the monk seal still remains widely distributed throughout Greece. In addition, the sightings of newborn pups in a number of coastal areas suggest that several breeding (sub) populations may exist within the species distribution. Furthermore, the high frequency of seal sightings in conjunction with evi- dence of breeding in specific areas (Samos - Fourni, Kythira, Kassos - Karpathos, Pelion - North Evia, Milos), suggest that there may be important (sub) populations which should be considered in the national strategy for the protection of the species. |