Monk Seals in Madeira 2025
One of the rarest seals in the world can still be found in Madeira
Best time: September–October
Desertas Islands (Ilhas Desertas) host a nature preserve, famous for its conservation program for a monk seal, known as sea-wolf (lobo marinho in Portuguese). September-October is the breeding season for these rare mammals so there is a better chance to spot them and their offsprings. However, bear in mind that monk seals are usually very shy and avoid contact with people.
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Authors: Olga Valchyshen