The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is putting forth a reward of up to $20,000 for anyone who can provide information about the person who shot a sea lion in California last August.

According to a news release issued by the federal agency’s Office of Law Enforcement, the reward aims to encourage tips that could lead to civil penalties or a criminal conviction related to the shooting of the California sea lion.

The injured sea lion was discovered at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County, roughly 40 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, on August 7. Although alive when found, the animal succumbed to its injuries the following day at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center.

An examination determined that this approximately 2-year-old male sea lion had sustained a recent gunshot wound to its back.

“Law enforcement is asking the public for information regarding the individual who shot the sea lion, as well as any other relevant details about the incident,” the release stated.

If you know anything about the shooting of the sea lion, please call NOAA’s enforcement hotline at (800) 853-1964, available 24/7.

Shooting of sea lions: A frequent occurrence

NOAA representative Michael Milstein shared with YSL News on Thursday that the organization hopes the reward will motivate witnesses to come forward with any unusual observations or information that might help catch the shooter.

“We often receive reports of sea lions getting shot, but this case is particularly concerning as the sea lion was still living when found. The wound was recent and occurred on a public beach, which should improve the chances that someone may have seen or heard something,” Milstein explained.

What to do if you encounter a stranded marine mammal

Marine mammals, like sea lions and seals, are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Violations can result in fines up to $11,000, criminal penalties as high as $100,000, and potential imprisonment of up to a year.

If you come across a marine mammal that appears sick, injured, malnourished, entangled, deceased, or covered in oil, it is recommended to follow these guidelines from CIMWI:

• Do not touch, feed, disturb, cover, water, coax, drag, or push the animal, nor let pets approach or take selfies with it.
• Keep at least 50 feet away, observing from a distance. Document the animal’s characteristics and state.
• Record the precise location of the animal, including landmarks, to assist rescuers in finding it.
• Alert authorities promptly.