Southern California Sea Lion Rescue Update

Photo credit: Mike Aguilera/SeaWorld San Diego

Awesome Ocean has been covering the ongoing sea lion rescue efforts along the California coast since the crisis began earlier this year. SeaWorld San Diego, and other marine mammal protection groups, have been working overtime in an effort to save as many of the dehydrated and malnourished pups as they can. 

Their efforts are beginning to pay off. 22 rehabilitated pups were returned to the wild this week by SeaWorld San Diego rescuers.

These sea lions are among the 650 SeaWorld San Diego have rescued so far this year. According to the facility, 1984 was their previous high year for sea lion rescues at 474.

The park suspended their sea lion and otter shows so additional staff could help with the record high number of rescues and rehabilitations.

According to SeaWorld, the rehabilitation time is around six weeks. During that time, the animals receive veterinary care and nourishment until they return to a healthy weight and gather food on their own.

Check out the full story from San Diego Channel 6.