The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society says it has received several calls about a sea lion in Nanaimo with a severe jaw injury, but his injury dates back to at least 2022.
The society says it recieves reports about the injured California sea lion “almost every March.”
“This sea lion suffered a severe jaw injury at least 4 years ago, and it’s now too late for any surgical repair,” Martin Haulena, the society’s head veterinarian and executive director, said in a Facebook post.
“While we all feel awful for what he’s been through, he’s adapted remarkably, figuring out how to hunt, eat, and survive in the wild. The wounds have scarred over, and he’s likely not in severe pain anymore.”
The society says it will continue to monitor him closely “in case he ever needs our help and we truly appreciate everyone’s concern.”
The society continues to ask anyone who sees a marine animal in distress to call it at 604‑258‑7325 or email rescue@vammr.org.
California sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, according to the Vancouver Aquarium’s information page.
“California Sea Lions are charismatic and playful marine mammals with sleek bodies, large front flippers, and adorable faces,” the information page says. “Found along the western shores of North America from Baja California to British Columbia.”
The sea lions can dive up to 275 metres underwater and stay submerged for 15 minutes.
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