San Pedro, CA – A dead sea lion discovered at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, California, has become the center of a disturbing incident after it was found defaced with graffiti on March 19, around 10 a.m. The animal, which washed up lifeless among the shoreline rocks and debris, was tagged with illegible graffiti, containing visible letters “R” and “W” obscured by a nearby stick and its shadow.
Local residents and online community members expressed their shock and disgust over the disrespectful treatment of the marine mammal. “Some sick individual tagged it…,” posted a San Pedro resident, expressing outrage over the incident. Another community member commented, “I usually stay out of this kind of thing…but that’s disgusting…some people have some serious issues.” The sentiment was echoed widely, with many calling for respect and protection of wildlife and natural habitats.
A top community contributor provided information on how to report deceased marine mammals or sea turtles, urging anyone who comes across similar incidents to contact the appropriate hotline. Despite the community’s prompt reporting, the sea lion was deemed too decomposed to be moved, adding to the local dismay. The act of defacement has not only saddened the community but also led to a broader conversation about environmental respect and wildlife protection. “This is very sad. Even worse makes our community look like trash. Raise your children to love and respect nature and animals,” stated another top contributor.
Authorities have been notified, and an examination of the sea lion was conducted, though details of any ongoing investigation have not been made public.
For reporting deceased or distressed marine mammals along the coast of California, including areas like Los Angeles County and San Pedro, you can contact the following organizations and hotlines:
- Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles
- Hotline: (310) 548-5677
- Website: marinemammalcare.org
This center is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick, injured, and orphaned marine mammals.
- California Wildlife Center
- Hotline: (310) 458-WILD (9453)
- Website: cawildlife.org
They provide emergency rescue and medical care for native wildlife, including marine mammals.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – West Coast Region Stranding Network
- Hotline: (866) 767-6114
- Website: fisheries.noaa.gov
NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service manages the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, which includes a network of organizations authorized to respond to marine mammal strandings.
- Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute (CIMWI)
- Hotline: (805) 567-1505
- Website: cimwi.org
CIMWI is dedicated to positively impacting conservation through marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, research, and education to promote ocean and human health.