First Demographic Parameter Estimates for the Mediterranean Monk Seal Population at Madeira, Portugal
August 17, 2023
We provide the first comprehensive demographic assessment of the Endangered Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus population residing in the Madeira Archipelago to identify factors that may impede population growth.
Encounter data was obtained for this small, elusive population from 2012 to 2021 using a variety of non-invasive methods. These survival rates are similar to published estimates from the Cabo Blanco (Western Sahara/Mauritania) population. This is remarkable given that Cabo Blanco is situated adjacent to the extremely productive Canary Current system, whereas the marine environment of Madeira is far less productive.
Pires R, Aparicio F, Baker JD, Pereira S, Caires N, Cedenilla MA, Harting AL, Menezes D, de Larrinoa PF 2023. First demographic parameter estimates for the Mediterranean monk seal population at Madeira, Portugal Endang Species Res 51:269-283.https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01260