The two-year-old California sea lion was found shot in the back at Bolsa Chica State Beach. Photo: NOAA
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is offering a reward for information regarding the shooting of a California sea lion.
The sea lion in question was found alive between lifeguard stations 22 and 23 at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County, California on August 7. Though the Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescued the animal, it died from its injuries the following day. An examination revealed that the 2-year-old sea lion had a fresh gunshot wound in its back.
“Law enforcement is seeking information on the person who shot the animal and any other details surrounding its shooting,” wrote the NOAA in a press release. The NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is offering up to $20,000 for any information that leads to a civil penalty or criminal conviction.
The release added that anyone with information about the sea lion shooting should call NOAA’s 24/7 enforcement hotline at (800) 853-1964.
