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Greece and Turkey share the responsibility
Since it was established in 1987, the Underwater Research Society-Mediterranean Seal Research Group (SAD-AFAG) has been working nonstop to save the seals and their habitat. With its headquarters in Ankara, it has offices in İzmir-Foca-Karaburun and Mersin Bozyazı employing a team of 16 people. 100 years ago, the Mediterranean seal lived on the entire shore of the Med?including Italy, Spain, France and Morocco. Today, it can only be found in Greece, Turkey and North Africa. Maybe 400-500 remain. 300-350 of these are in Turkey and Greece, countries that still have clean shores and seas.
On other Mediterranean shores, unplanned and excessive construction is the major reason behind the destruction of the habitat. Another factor is excessive and illegal fishing. This has led to a drop in the seal population and in the diversity of marine life.
However, thanks to the work of the SAD-AFAG, there have been no reported cases of seals being deliberately killed for 10 years. But fishing nets remain a real danger to pups. In the last 3 years, 2 pups have been killed on the Karaburun peninsula. Finally, water pollution (though rare in Turkey) and tourist dives in seal caves also hamper the lives of seals.
The Mediterranean seals are ours!
It takes time, courage and a lot of hard work to protect the sea and shores of Turkey. For 15 years, the SAD-AFAG has been trying to improve conditions by working in partnership with the government, the public and fishermen--who play the most crucial role. The Mediterranean, its shores and its seal belong to us. We must take action before it is too late. Be a part of the solution, not the problem. Save the Mediterranean seal! To adopt a seal, support the SAD-AFAG as a member or for more information, www.afag.org Ankara Coordination Office Tel: +90 312-213 08 34, Fax: +90 312-213 89 34, E-mail: yesim@afag.org and info@afag.org
