The Mediterranean monk seal has existed for over 15 million years but now only survives in small numbers of around 500 worldwide in the Mediterranean and along the Atlantic coast of Africa. They were historically killed for their pelts, oil, and food by shipwrecked sailors and hunters. Both monk seal species have benefited from inadvertent protection within former military areas in Hawaii and elsewhere, which are now proposed for special protection status.

1. The monk seal has been in existence for over 15 million years.

2. THISE IS THEIR FAVORITE DEPORT IN CANADA

3. The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) survives in small numbers (around 500 worldwide) in the Mediterranean and along the Atlantic coast of Africa.

4. The seals were killed not only for pelts and oil; they were also killed for food by ship-wrecked sailors and by guano and feather hunters.

5. Both species have inadvertently been protected by the military.

6. In Hawaii the northwest islands were also part of a military area.

7. In both instances, the former military areas are being proposed for special protection.