HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — This week, federal authorities announced a reward of $20,000 for any information related to the tragic shooting of a sea lion that occurred this past summer in Southern California.
The injured sea lion, a male estimated to be around 2 years old, was found on August 7 between two lifeguard stations at Bolsa Chica State Beach, located in Orange County. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the animal succumbed to its injuries the following day. A post-mortem examination revealed that the sea lion had sustained a gunshot wound to its back, as stated in a NOAA Fisheries press release issued on Wednesday.
In an effort to bring justice for this incident, NOAA’s law enforcement division is offering the reward for information that could lead to either a civil penalty or a criminal conviction pertaining to the shooting. The Marine Mammal Protection Act enforced by the federal government strictly forbids the harassment, hunting, capturing, or killing of sea lions and other marine mammals. Those who violate these regulations may face significant penalties, including fines and the potential seizure of any vessel used in the act.
Officials are urging anyone with details about the shooting to come forward and share that information with NOAA. Sea lions are commonly found along the West Coast of the United States, often seen lounging on beaches, docks, jetties, and buoys, making them a familiar sight for both locals and visitors alike.
