Feds search for gunman who shot, killed young California sea lion [Video]

Federal officials are searching for the suspect who shot and killed a sea lion in California this week.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the incident in an Oct. 9 press release. The sea lion was found injured at Bolsa Chica State Beach Monday.

The animal, still alive when officials photographed him, was 2 years old. Sea lions typically have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.

The young male was initially “found alive between lifeguard stations 22 and 23,” according to the NOAA.

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“The Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Orange County rescued the male sea lion, but it died from its injuries the following day,” the grim statement added.

“An examination found that the approximately 2-year-old sea lion had a fresh gunshot wound in its back.”

Sea lions tend to be curious and non-aggressive toward humans. If found, the suspect will be prosecuted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). 

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