Urgent Update: Seal Species Face Extinction Threats Across EU

UPDATE: Major threats to seal populations across Europe are escalating, with species like the Mediterranean monk seal, grey seal, and harbour seal teetering on the brink of extinction. Reports from The Journal Investigates reveal alarming increases in seal deaths due to hunting, pollution, and human disturbances, despite existing protections under the EU Habitats Directive.

From the turbulent waters of the North Sea in Belgium to the sunlit shores of the Greek islands, seals are facing a crisis. 72 dead seals were recorded along Belgium’s coastline in 2024, the highest annual figure to date. In Ireland, 430 seal deaths were reported in 2023, marking a record high. These figures highlight a troubling trend that threatens the survival of these marine mammals.

The Mediterranean monk seal is particularly at risk, with only about 1,000 individuals remaining. Conservationists are racing against time to protect this critically endangered species, especially as human activity encroaches on their breeding caves. Tourists and coastal development are pushing these seals out of their last strongholds, leading to dire consequences for their populations.

Dimitris Tsiakalos from MOm, the Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, stated, “While monk seal numbers are low, they are beginning to appear in new locations, including areas where they had vanished. However, this proximity to humans increases their risk.” The shift in behavior raises concerns about the safety of these mammals as they adapt to changing environments.

In Belgium, increasing human disturbance is also evident, with reports of seals found dead due to fishing gear entanglement. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of Ireland has acknowledged the impact of extreme weather patterns on seal populations, noting a recent decline in deaths, but overall numbers remain concerning.

Meanwhile, in Denmark, though seal populations are stabilizing, experts warn of ongoing threats from pollution and bycatch in gillnets. The situation is dire across the EU’s waters, where enforcement of protective measures remains weak. Many seals are found with injuries from marine litter, while climate change exacerbates habitat loss.

Despite these challenges, conservation efforts are underway. Volunteer groups in Belgium are working tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate injured seals, while researchers in Denmark are adjusting tourism guidelines based on seal behavior studies. In Greece, MOm celebrates successes in rehabilitating monk seals, highlighting a commitment to reverse the downward trend.

However, experts agree that without stronger cross-border cooperation and stringent enforcement of conservation laws, these local initiatives may not be enough. The EU has a critical deadline approaching under the Habitats Directive, and failure to reverse these alarming trends could result in significant repercussions for the affected species.

Campaigners emphasize the need for immediate action. The EU’s robust seal protection laws are at risk of being undermined by slow enforcement and inconsistent self-policing by member states. The Mediterranean monk seal stands at a crossroads, balancing precariously between recovery and collapse.

As conservationists push for stronger measures, the time to act is NOW. The survival of Europe’s seal populations hangs in the balance, and the urgency for effective intervention has never been greater. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing crisis impacting one of our ocean’s most beloved species.