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.<\/p>\n
The society says it recieves reports about the injured California sea lion \u201calmost every March.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThis sea lion suffered a severe jaw injury at least 4 years ago, and it\u2019s now too late for any surgical repair,\u201d Martin Haulena, the society\u2019s head veterinarian and executive director, said in a Facebook post.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we all feel awful for what he\u2019s been through, he\u2019s adapted remarkably, figuring out how to hunt, eat, and survive in the wild. The wounds have scarred over, and he\u2019s likely not in severe pain anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n
The society says it will continue to monitor him closely \u201cin case he ever needs our help and we truly appreciate everyone\u2019s concern.\u201d<\/p>\n
The society continues to ask anyone who sees a marine animal in distress to call it at 604\u2011258\u20117325 or email rescue@vammr.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n California sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, according to the Vancouver Aquarium\u2019s information page<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cCalifornia Sea Lions are charismatic and playful marine mammals with sleek bodies, large front flippers, and adorable faces,\u201d the information page says. \u201cFound along the western shores of North America from Baja California to British Columbia.\u201d<\/p>\n The sea lions can dive up to 275 metres underwater and stay submerged for 15 minutes.<\/p>\n