Yulia, the Famous Endangered Monk Seal, Sighted Near Lebanon

Yulia, the Mediterranean monk seal, has resurfaced off the coast of Lebanon, delighting marine enthusiasts and the public alike. This sighting comes over a year after her last known appearance on a beach in the Gaza Strip, as reported by Army Radio.

Yulia first made headlines in May 2023 when she was spotted on Israeli shores. The seal quickly became a beloved figure amidst a turbulent year of political challenges and debates over judicial reform. Her presence on an Israeli beach was an unprecedented event, given the Mediterranean monk seal's critically endangered status. These seals are among the rarest mammals on the planet, with an estimated population of only 500-700 individuals.

While the Mediterranean monk seal’s habitat spans the Mediterranean Sea, sightings are most common in the Aegean Sea near Greece, Turkey, and Cyprus. It is rare for these seals to venture as far south as Israel. The last recorded sighting before Yulia was in 2010, when a monk seal was briefly seen off the coast of Tel Aviv and later near Rosh Hanikra, marking the first appearance in 70 years.

Yulia's case is exceptional not only because she was seen on the beach, but also due to her extensive journey. Identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as Tugra, a seal previously documented in Greece and Turkey, Yulia is known for her impressive swimming distances.

After captivating the Israeli public by resting on the sands of Tel Aviv, Yulia was next seen in Rafah, Gaza Strip. Following this, her whereabouts remained a mystery until her recent sighting in Lebanese waters.

The news of Yulia's reappearance has sparked joy across social media. One user exclaimed, "Finally, some good news!" Another humorously suggested that Yulia should mediate between Israel and Hezbollah instead of the US envoy. Others playfully speculated about her being an espionage agent for various organizations, highlighting the seal's unexpected yet heartwarming role in regional narratives.

Yulia's journey remains an enigma, and it is uncertain where her travels will lead next. Her story continues to inspire and bring a sense of wonder to all who follow her adventures.

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