The Caribbean Monk Seal (Monachus tropicalis), the only seal ever known to be native to the Caribbean sea and the Gulf of Mexico, is now considered extinct. In the United States, the last recorded sighting of this marine mammal occurred in 1932 off the Texas coast.
The Caribbean Monk Seal was a relatively small seal with rolls of fat arround its neck, and brown pelage that faded to a yellow-white color on the stomach. The soles and palms were naked, with the nails on the anterior digits well developed. The males reached a length of about 2.25 meters and weighed up to 200 kilograms. Displaying sexual dimorphism, the females of this species were generally smaller than males.
These pinnipeds lived in marine environment, spending much of their time in the water, and occupying rocky and sandy coastlines for shelter and breeding. Their diet included eels, lobsters, octopus, and other reef fish.
Like other true seals, the Carribean Monk Seal was sluggish on land. This, along with its lack of fear for man, and an unaggressive and curious behaviour, likely contributed to its demise.
Reproduction and Longevity
Very little is known about the reproduction behavior and longevity of this animal. Live pups were likely born in early December because several females killed in the Yucatan during this time of the year had well-developed fetuses. It is believed that this animal's average lifespan was approximately 20 years.
History
During his 1493 voyage, Christopher Columbus described the Caribbean Monk Seal as a "sea-wolf". Once this region began to be colonized soon afterward, whatever little habitat this species had left was lost. It also began to be exploited commercially for its oil, and less frequently, for its meat.
Unconfirmed Sightings
Unconfirmed sightings of Carribean Monk Seals are relatively common in Haiti and Jamaica, where two scientific expeditions were undertaken recently -- both failed to produce any evidence of this animal as still living. Nonetheless, local fishermen and divers regularly claim to have seen the seal, making the existence of this animal still a possibility.
References
- ADW: Monachus tropicalis
