| Monk seals reproduce slowly, sometimes only every other
year, starting at the age of four. Adult females come ashore to give birth to
one pup, then remain on the beach nursing and protecting the pup for up to six
weeks. Living off stored fat, the female does not leave the pup even to feed
herself during this period. The pup may stay with its mother for as long as
three years after weaning. | |
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used with
permission © 2001 IMMA Inc.
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| Weight: |
about 300 kg / 660 lbs |
| Length: |
2.5 m / 8 ft (males slightly larger) |
| Habitat: |
The Mediterranean monk seal is a coastal species. Most monk seals are
found on two types of coasts: archipelagoes, especially those with small
islands, often uninhabitable by man because of water shortage; and cliffbound
mainland coastlines. The monk seal currently uses caves, especially ones with
submarine entrances, for rest and reproduction. |
| Age to Maturity: |
Sexual maturity of females is probably reached after five to six
years, or as early as four years for some. |
| Gestation Period: |
11 months |
| Lifespan: |
Up to 45 years |
| Offspring: |
One pup every two years |
| Pups: |
80-100 cm / 32-40 inches;
15-20 kg / 33-44
lbs |
| Diet: |
fish and
octopus | | | |
