First demographic parameter estimates for the Mediterranean monk seal population at Madeira, Portugal

Abstract

We provide the first comprehensive demographic assessment of the Endangered Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus population residing in the Madeira Archipelago to identify factors that may impede population growth. Encounter data was obtained for this small, elusive population from 2012 to 2021 using a variety of non-invasive methods. From birth to age 2 mo, when pups molt, survival averaged 0.57. From birth to 1 yr and from 1−2 yr, estimated survival rates were 0.47 and 0.85, respectively. Beyond 2 yr, survival estimates differed by sex: 0.98 for females and 0.90 for males. These survival rates are similar to published estimates from the Cabo Blanco (Western Sahara/Mauritania) population. This is remarkable given that Cabo Blanco is situated adjacent to the extremely productive Canary Current system, whereas the marine environment of Madeira is far less productive. Instead of reducing survival, low marine productivity in Madeira appears to manifest in strikingly depressed reproductive rates. We estimated a mean gross reproductive rate of just 0.31; less than half the value (0.71) reported for Cabo Blanco. The youngest parturient females in Madeira were 6 yr old, whereas 3 yr olds give birth at Cabo Blanco. Despite low fecundity, the monk seal population in Madeira has been recovering, aided by a series of conservation measures implemented since 1988. Our results document that abundance increased from 19 seals in 2013 to 27 in 2021. Despite this undeniable success, the monk seals of Madeira remain vulnerable and require continued monitoring and protection in order to persist.