Mark Perry first met the sea lion he calls “One Eye” in 2024. Now, he’s trying to help his new friend, who is currently dealing with an eye injury.

SAN DIEGO — A local lobster fisherman, Mark Perry, is trying to help a sea lion that swims in the San Diego Bay, and is currently dealing with an eye injury. 

Perry first met the Sea Lion he calls “One Eye” in 2024, and the pair developed an unlikely bond. 

“Sea lions are very good at taking fish… When [fisherman] and sea lions typically get together, it’s not a copacetic, friendly relationship,” Perry said. 

But “One Eye” is different. “One Eye” recognizes and follows Perry’s boat. 

“He would always find us. He shows up and hangs out at the back of the boat most of the evening with us. Regardless of where we go. And he knows he’s gonna get the leftover bait and stuff afterwards,” Perry said. 

When their friendship began, Perry noticed the sea lion had an injury. 

Over time, it worsened. Perry has been looking for help. He was in touch with PETA, which then recommended he get in touch with SeaWorld. 

“They cannot do anything to this animal as long as he’s in the water. He’s just too big and powerful. And if they were able to sedate him, there’s a possibility that he could drown,” Perry said. 

A spokesperson for SeaWorld told CBS 8 that the rescue team is aware of the animal and continues to monitor the situation. 

“Based on observations of body condition and ease of movement in the water, the injury does not appear to be limiting the animal’s mobility, as his body weight indicates he is actively hunting and foraging for food. SeaWorld can only attempt a rescue when an animal is stranded on the beach and located in an area that is safe and accessible for both the rescue team and the animal, as attempting an in-water rescue can be very challenging and dangerous,” Tracy Spahr, a SeaWorld San Diego spokesperson, said. 

If someone sees an animal in distress or in need of help, SeaWorld said to contact their Rescue Team at 1-800-541-SEAL (7325) or SWC.Rescue@seaworld.com.

Helpful information to give the Rescue Team:

Date animal was last seenTime animal was last seenLocation (name of beach, address, landmark, etc.)Size of the animal compared to a dog breedBehavior and condition of the animalIs the animal entangled in fishing gear?

In the meantime, Perry hopes there’s a way for “One Eye” to eventually receive medical attention. 

“I kind of feel a little bit for this thing. It’s kinda like ‘The Odd Couple.’ It’s weird that the fishermen would have an affection for the sea lion, but we do. We care about this guy. When he’s out there, it always brings a smile to my face,” Perry said.Â