Mediterranean Monk Seals Hide in Underwater 'Bubble Caves' to Avoid Tourists During the Busy Summer Season, a Study Suggests

Sarah Kuta· May 21, 2026 · 2:40 PM UTC ·5 min read · 0 reactions · 0 comments · 51 views

#marine biology #conservation #wildlife #tourism #seals

TL;DR · WeSearch summary

Mediterranean monk seals have been observed using hidden underwater 'bubble caves' to escape from tourists during the busy summer season. This behavior, documented in a recent study, highlights the importance of these secluded habitats for the seals' conservation. The findings suggest that protecting these bubble caves could be crucial for the survival of this vulnerable species.

Key facts

▪Mediterranean monk seals are among the rarest pinnipeds, with an estimated 444 to 600 mature individuals remaining.
▪Researchers discovered that seals prefer to use bubble caves, which are small, air-filled chambers hidden from human access.
▪The study monitored seal activity in the caves over 141 days, revealing a strong preference for the bubble cave over the larger main cave.

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Smithsonian Magazine files mainly under science. We currently carry 112 of its stories.

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Original publisher	Smithsonian Magazine
Canonical URL	https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/mediterranean-monk-seals-hide-in-underwater-bubble-caves-to-avoid-tourists-during-the-busy-summer-season-a-study-suggests-180988775/
Publication time	Thu, 21 May 2026 14:40:02 +0000
Retrieval time	2026-05-21T14:56:11.046Z
Last seen	2026-05-21T14:56:11.046Z
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand

Mediterranean Monk Seals Hide in Underwater ‘Bubble Caves’ to Avoid Tourists During the Busy Summer Season, a Study Suggests Researchers caught the rare pinnipeds resting and sleeping in a secluded chamber on the Greek islet of Formicula. The findings suggest that these small caves should be included in efforts to protect the animals’ habitat Sarah Kuta | Daily Correspondent May 21, 2026 10:40 a.m. ShareCopy linkEmailSMSFacebookXRedditLinkedInBlueskyPrintAdd as preferred source Mediterranean monk seals are among the rarest pinnipeds in the world.

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