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Federal wildlife authorities are investigating after a viral video appeared to show a man repeatedly kicking a federally protected sea lion as it tried to flee along a Southern California beach.
The footage, which authorities say was filmed at La Jolla Cove in San Diego, shows a man throwing multiple kicks at the sea lion while another person can be heard laughing in the background. The animal scrambles away as the man follows it before the video cuts off.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed its Office of Law Enforcement has opened an investigation.
Sea lions on the beach in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, California (Reuters)
“NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement is investigating reports of a video on social media that shows an interaction between an individual and sea lion, allegedly in La Jolla Cove,” the agency said. “In the video, the individual appears to be kicking the sea lion. This is an ongoing investigation, and we cannot provide further details at this time.”
The person shown in the video has not been publicly identified.
Sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which makes it illegal to harass, harm, pursue, capture or injure marine mammals. Violations can carry fines or jail time. NOAA advises people to stay at least 50 feet away from sea lions, seals and other protected species.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria condemned the incident, calling it “a disgusting act of animal cruelty” (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria condemned the incident, calling it “a disgusting act of animal cruelty.” He said he had directed local law enforcement to review the footage while acknowledging the federal investigation.
NOAA urged anyone who witnesses potential violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act to report them immediately, saying investigations are most effective when detailed information is provided.
The video has sparked widespread outrage online and drawn condemnation from animal welfare groups, including PETA.
“Assault is ASSAULT, no matter the species,” PETA said in a statement. “This abuser laughed while harassing and kicking a sea lion who was desperately trying to escape. Thanks to everyone who reported it; the case is now under investigation. Leave animals ALONE, and always speak up when you witness abuse.”
Despite reports that the San Diego Police Department was involved, police said they were not notified when the incident occurred. Lt. Cesar Jimenez said the case was reported to California Fish and Game, which referred it to NOAA for investigation.