Federal investigators are looking for the person who shot and killed a sea lion in California this week.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the occurrence in a news statement on October 9. The sea lion was discovered injured at Bolsa Chica State Beach on Monday.
The animal, which was still alive when officials photographed it, was two years old. Sea lions typically live 20 to 30 years. The little male was initially “found alive between lifeguard stations 22 and 23,” according to the NOAA.
“The Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Orange County rescued the male sea lion, but it died from its injuries the following day,” said the somber statement.
“An examination found that the approximately 2-year-old sea lion had a fresh gunshot wound in its back.”
Sea lions are known for their curiosity and lack of aggression toward humans. If caught, the culprit will face charges under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
“The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits the harassment, hunting, capturing or killing of sea lions and other marine mammals,” according to the agency’s explanation. “However, the law allows for non-lethal methods to deter marine mammals from damaging private property, including fishing gear and catch, if it does not injure or kill an animal.”
Officials believe there were multiple witnesses at the Orange County beach during the event. The NOAA is offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to the suspect’s conviction or civil punishment.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is invited to contact the NOAA hotline at 800-853-1964.