Investigation Launched Over Sea Lion Incident in California

Federal wildlife authorities are investigating a video showing a sea lion being kicked on a California beach. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has confirmed an ongoing investigation without disclosing more details.

The video captures a person kicking a sea lion at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. At least one other person can be heard laughing in the background. The person continues to kick the animal as it attempts to move away. NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement is handling the investigation.

A NOAA spokesperson stated, “We are investigating reports of the video on social media depicting an interaction with a sea lion, allegedly at La Jolla Cove. In the video, the individual seems to be kicking the sea lion. This is an ongoing investigation, and we cannot provide further details at this time.”

The agency notes only four enforcement officers patrol the entire state of California. They rely on local park rangers and California Fish and Wildlife for enforcement, according to CBS affiliate KFMB.

Ashley Hurwitz, a Seal Society volunteer, stated, “There are rangers here, and we’re present as volunteers; however, we can’t always be there or enforce the law.” The person in the video remains unidentified.

Sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Harassment can result in fines up to $36,000 and a year in prison. NOAA recommends staying at least 50 feet away from protected species.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria commented on the incident, calling it “unacceptable.” He confirmed the federal investigation and requested local law enforcement to examine the footage.

The Sierra Club’s Seal Society estimates 10 sea lion pup deaths at La Jolla Cove this year. Advocates suggest human interference leads to mothers abandoning pups. In May, another tourist faced arrest for assaulting a Hawaiian monk seal in Hawaii. His lawyer later claimed he was protecting sea turtles.