Association for the Conservation and Protection of the Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA) has announced that on March 9, 2026, an individual Mediterranean monk seal was found dead in the Karaburun Peninsula area, in the Vlora district.
According to the report, two days before the body was found, tourists had posted on social media footage of a seal in the same area. In the video, the animal showed signs of life, but also behavior that was unusual for the ecology of this species, which raised doubts about its health.
After receiving the information, PPNEA launched a search operation at sea. Then, in collaboration with veterinarians trained in the treatment of marine mammals, it was possible to remove the animal from the shore and transport it for further examinations.
The individual was taken to the SharkLab Adria Research Center in Vlora where detailed examinations and a necropsy procedure were performed.
During this process, biological samples were taken according to scientific protocols, which will be analyzed in the laboratory to determine the cause of the animal's death.
According to preliminary morphological examinations, the individual turns out to be a mature female. After the completion of the analyses and scientific procedures, her body will be sent to the Museum of Natural Sciences in Tirana, where it will be prepared for embalming for scientific, educational and awareness-raising purposes.
Experts emphasize that the Mediterranean monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. The global population of this species is estimated to be less than 1000 individuals, while in Albania its presence is very rare. Such cases are considered important to understand the threats facing marine mammals in the region and to strengthen efforts for their protection. /Telegrafi/
