In ancient Greece the Monk seal was placed under the protection of the God of the Sun Apollo and loved by the God the sea Poseidon.
At one time the species were widespread throughout the Mediterranean sea ; The Romans Knew it and called it “old of the sea” giving to this marine mammal human nature.
The Mediterranean monk seal, who's peculiar name cames from the Greek word “monachus” because the colour of its coat resemble the colour of a monk's robe, is listed as one of the species endanger of extinction.
