Federal authorities are reviewing a video that appears to show a man kicking a sea lion on a beach in La Jolla, California. The incident, which occurred Wednesday evening at the popular La Jolla Cove, was captured on camera and has since circulated online.
The footage depicts a man approaching a sea lion resting on a low concrete wall. He is seen kicking the animal, causing it to flee. The man then appears to pursue the sea lion briefly before giving up the chase. Bystanders are heard laughing in the background during the interaction.
The individual involved has not yet been identified. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is investigating the incident, according to NBC San Diego. Assaulting a sea lion is a federal offense, and prior convictions have resulted in significant prison sentences.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) condemned the act on social media, stating, "Assault is ASSAULT, no matter the species." The organization thanked those who reported the incident and emphasized the need to leave wild animals undisturbed and to speak out against abuse.
The Sierra Club's Seal Society also reported the incident and called the behavior unacceptable. Robyn Davidoff, chair of the Seal Society, stated that such actions are an assault on a protected species and that the perpetrator should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Tourists visiting the area expressed their dismay. Julissa Garza, a visitor from Texas, called for immediate prosecution, while Heidi Woo of Carmel Valley noted that warning signs are present and that consequences should follow violations.
Sea lions in the area are in the midst of their mating season and pupping period. According to Davidoff, human interaction with newborn pups can be detrimental, as mothers may struggle to recognize their scent after contact. She noted that approximately 50% of pups born this season have died in areas with high human interaction, compared to only 10% in areas with limited human contact.