Politics & Government

Warning on Beached Sea Lions

Approaching a sick marine mammal can do more harm than good, authorities caution.

Following up on washing ashore in Long Beach, Seal Beach and elsewhere along our coast:

Long  Beach  Animal  Care Services  has issued a warning to stay away from beached sea lions or other sea mammals and to instead contact that agency to report animals that appear sick. (Not all beached sea lions are necessarily ill, it says. Sometimes they are onshore to get warm.)

The agency also advises that approaching sea lions or other beached marine mammals violates federal law and is dangerous for all involved. The
Marine Mammal Care Center gives the following recommendations in such cases:

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  • Do not approach, touch or feed the animal. The animals can bite and it is a federal offense to disturb them.
  • Do not push the animal back into the surf or pour water on it.
  • Pouring water on it may only further serve to debilitate a sick or injured animal.
  • Do not feed the animal. Feeding the animals something other than what it is accustomed to may lead to illness and possibly death.
  • Keep your distance and observe the animal from binocular range. Is it thin, can you see its ribs or backbone or any visible signs of injury. Is it alert and just sunning itself?  Is it watching you but not very active?  Is it unconscious?   See if its eyes are tearing. If its eyes are wet so that it looks raccoon-like, that is a good sign, indicating the animal is hydrated.
  • If an animal appears to be in distress, contact the City of Long Beach lifeguard or Animal Care Services at (562) 570-PETS. Provide the location and condition of the animal.


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