The monk seal was so present in Ogliastra that one of the most famous coves, Cala Mariolu, takes its name from this “fish thief”
The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) is one of the rarest seal species in the world, and is considered to be in danger of extinction. Until a few decades ago, its presence was documented in Sardinia, and in particular in the Ogliastra area, and there is historical evidence of the presence of this marine mammal.
Credits Sardegna digital library
Historical presence of the Monk Seal in Ogliastra
In the first half of the twentieth century, the monk seal was common along the rocky coasts and sea caves of Ogliastra such as that of Bue Marino
(precisely the monk seal), which offered an ideal habitat for shelter and reproduction. The seals used the caves to protect themselves from predators and humans.
The famous Cala Mariolu, located in the territory of Baunei, takes its name from the monk seal. According to tradition, it stole fish from the nets of fishermen originally from Ponza but who lived in the village of Santa Lucia (Siniscola) and who fished in the area. The seals’ ability to steal fish gave them the nickname “thief” (mariuolo, sardized in mariolu).
Recent Monk Seal Sightings In Ogliastra
In recent decades, the monk seal has disappeared from most of its historical distribution areas, including Sardinia. However, there have been sporadic and not always confirmed sightings in Sardinian waters, particularly in Ogliastra in 2020, although in general there is more talk of occasional reports rather than a stable presence.
Credits Sardegna Turismo
How to behave in case of a chance encounter with a Monk Seal
It is necessary to maintain a minimum distance of at least 50 meters: monk seals are wild animals and particularly sensitive to the presence of strangers. It is important to respect their tranquility and observe them from a distance.
In the case of a monk seal on land, it is essential not to interrupt the connection between the animal and the sea, avoiding coming between the seal and its natural environment. This behavior could cause stress and discomfort to the animal.
Pets must be kept at a distance. It is advisable to avoid dogs or other animals approaching the seal, as this could scare it or transmit potentially dangerous diseases. The same behavior should be suggested to anyone approaching with similar intentions.
It is not advisable to intervene directly: even in the presence of a monk seal injured or in difficulty, it is preferable to avoid autonomous interventions. Rescue operations must be managed by competent experts, such as veterinarians from wildlife recovery centers. The situation must be reported immediately, waiting for the arrival of specialists.
Credits Wikipedia Creative Common
Will the Monk Seal Return to Ogliastra?
There is growing optimism among experts about the possible return of the monk seal to Sardinia, thanks to ongoing conservation projects in the Mediterranean. These include the protection of marine areas, the limitation of human activities in certain areas, and the monitoring of caves potentially suitable for breeding.
Indeed, Sardinia, with its rocky coasts and isolated sea caves, could represent a suitable habitat for the return of the monk seal, provided that adequate protection of the environment and marine protected areas is ensured.
However, although the historical presence of the monk seal in Ogliastra is documented, at present its presence is not stable or confirmed on a continuous basis. However, thanks to conservation and protection efforts, there is a possibility that in the future the monk seal could return to colonize some areas of Sardinia, including Ogliastra.
Which hotel to choose in Ogliastra?
We recommend our Felix Hotels Galanias Hotel & Retreat, located a few kilometers from the previously mentioned locations. It is located in Bari Sardo, and is immersed in an environment where nature and sea come together, creating a scene of rare beauty.
The structure, developed on various levels that slope down towards the garden, has three swimming pools, surrounded by olive trees, palm trees and Mediterranean plants. The sea, with the splendid beach of Torre di Barì, can be reached in just 10 minutes on foot.
The furnishings are inspired by the typical Sardinian style, with a traditional and elegant design, enriched by furniture and fabrics handcrafted by the masters of Ogliastra.
Our restaurant offers not only Italian cuisine, but also local specialties prepared with zero-mile ingredients.
Choosing Felix Hotels Galanias for your next holiday in Sardinia means combining Sardinian hospitality at the highest level with a landscape of absolute beauty… and maybe even meeting a Monk Seal!
