In the early hours of July 10, 2025, a young male Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) was found washed up on Elli Beach, Rhodes. Nicknamed “Julius”, the seal showed signs of recent abrasions, suggesting a minor scuffle—likely a dominance-related encounter with another male.
Thanks to the swift response and coordinated efforts of local marine experts, Julius received immediate care. On-call staff member Mr. Dimitris Mavrouleas from the Rhodes Hydrobiological Station and Aquarium of the Hellenic Center for Marine Research (HCMR) arrived early to assess the situation. He was joined by veterinarian Mr. Margies, a member of the “ARION” Network, along with support from Mr. Odysseas Paxinos of MOm – the Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, and Professor Anastasia Komnenou, also from ARION.
After a few hours of rest and recovery, Julius decided he was ready to return to the sea—an encouraging outcome for all involved! We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Kyriakos Sotiriou for reporting the incident so promptly, and to the staff of Playa de Azul, Rhodes and Casino Rodos, especially Mr. Erigli Bicaku, for their assistance in managing the situation.
Since May 2025, a licensed First Aid Station for Wildlife Species (specializing in sea turtles and marine mammals) has been operating at the Rhodes Hydrobiological Station / HCMR.
Help Us Protect Marine Life
Every effort counts in preserving our fragile marine ecosystem.
📞 To report injured,
stranded, or distressed marine animals, contact us:
📱
6952008130 or ☎️ 22410 78320
🕘
Available daily from 09:00 to 20:00
📲
Or reach out via the Aquarium’s social media channels
💙 Follow us on Facebook:
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076905074124
