$20,000 reward offered after sea lion shot at CA beach

A distressing incident occurred on a beach in Southern California where a sea lion was shot. The American National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced a reward of $20,000 for information that could help identify the perpetrators.

The injured animal was found on Bolsa Chica Beach and, unfortunately, succumbed to its wounds.

According to information provided by NOAA, the male sea lion, estimated to be about two years old, was discovered between two lifeguard stations on Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County.

The animal was severely injured. An examination revealed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the back.

In response to this event, NOAA's law enforcement department has appealed for help from the local community. To encourage public involvement, a substantial reward of $20,000 has been offered. NOAA stated that this reward will be given "for information leading to a civil penalty or conviction for a crime" related to the shooting.

These animals are found in the eastern part of the northern Pacific Ocean—from south-central Alaska to the Islas Marías Archipelago near Nayarit in Mexico, including the Gulf of California. They are usually seen on beaches, docks, as well as on piers and buoys.

Unfortunately, these marine mammals are at risk from illegal human activities. Killing one of these animals violates the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. This act prohibits harassment, hunting, capturing, or killing marine mammals, including sea lions. "Perpetrators may face fines and confiscation of the vessel involved in the incident," stresses NOAA.