A sea lion entangled in fishing gear was rescued by personnel from the Los Cabos Naval Search, Rescue, and Maritime Surveillance Station (ENSAR) during a routine patrol.
The animal was found with fishing lures and nets wrapped around its neck and visible injuries to its ears. ENSAR coordinated with civilian marine biologists and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (PROFEPA) to sedate the sea lion, carefully remove the entanglements, and treat its wounds. After receiving medication, the animal was released back into the wild.
Such incidents are not uncommon in the area. In previous years, sea lion pups have been injured by abandoned or poorly placed fishing nets. Sea lions are often attracted to nets while attempting to feed on trapped fish, becoming ensnared in the process. Some have died due to injuries and delayed rescue efforts.
The problem is compounded by tourists feeding sea lions, often shared on social media,creating a misleading image of domesticated animals. This behavior has led to reports of sea lions approaching boats and even attacking people in search of food.
Martín Inzunza, director of FONMAR (Fund for the Protection of Marine Resources) in Baja California Sur, urged the public to stop feeding sea lions and called on fishing cooperatives to report improperly placed gear. He also stressed the importance of marking buoys with the name of the permit holder or responsible cooperative to aid enforcement and oversight.
