Rare Giant Seals Hide in Caves to Escape Tourists

Greece is creating protected areas to keep tourists away. The goal is to help the endangered Mediterranean monk seal return to its islands. In a dark sea cave in Greece's northern Sporades, a large shape moves. Through binoculars, observers on a distant boat confirm it is a monk seal. This species is one of the world's rarest marine mammals. It can grow up to 2.8 meters long and weigh over 300kg. The seal is on the island of Piperi. This island is part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades. It is Greece's largest marine protected area (MPA). The area is a critical breeding habitat for the seals. Access is strictly controlled. Only researchers with government permission may come within three miles of Piperi's shore. Authorities hope these measures will protect the seals from human disturbance.