Federal wildlife authorities are investigating an incident in Southern California where a video posted to social media appeared to show a man kicking a protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria called the footage a “disgusting act of animal cruelty” and asked local police to review the material as the federal inquiry proceeds.
Federal Investigation Underway at La Jolla Cove
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement announced on Friday, July 24, that it is examining social media footage from La Jolla Cove. According to a statement released by the agency on social media, the video captures an interaction between an individual and a sea lion. In the footage, the person appears to kick the animal while another voice laughs in the background. The animal then attempts to retreat from its resting spot on the seawall before the individual tries to kick it a second time.
La Jolla Cove sits roughly 13 miles northwest of downtown San Diego and draws crowds for its coastal views and resident wildlife population. Local officials responded quickly after the video surfaced online. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria posted a statement on X condemning the event, writing that the city must protect its local fauna and confirming he asked local law enforcement to examine the footage as well.
Did you know?
California sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act enacted in 1972. According to NOAA guidelines, it is illegal for members of the public to feed, capture, harm, kill, or harass these marine mammals.
Legal Protections and Potential Penalties for Harassing Wildlife
Harassing or harming marine mammals carries significant legal consequences under federal law. NOAA states that anyone who violates these protections faces potential jail time and federal penalties.
The San Diego Police Department addressed the public via an Instagram comment, confirming that federal officials hold jurisdiction over the ongoing case. The police department thanked community members for reporting the behavior and directed anyone with relevant details to contact federal investigators directly.
How the Public Can Assist Law Enforcement
The NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement urged anyone with information regarding this incident—or any similar event involving harmed or harassed marine mammals—to contact their hotline immediately at 800-853-1964.
Frequently Asked Questions
What agency is investigating the La Jolla Cove sea lion incident?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement is leading the investigation.
Are California sea lions protected by federal law?
Yes. According to the Marine Mammal Commission, they are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.
What penalties do violators face?
Individuals who violate federal protections by feeding, capturing, harming, killing, or harassing sea lions face potential jail time and federal penalties, according to NOAA guidelines.
Who should I contact if I witness wildlife harassment?
You can report incidents to the NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement at 800-853-1964.
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