Federal Wildlife Authorities Investigate Video of Sea Lion Being Kicked
Federal wildlife authorities are investigating a video that appears to show someone kicking a sea lion on a California beach.
Cleveland Akron, OH, July 27, 2026 —
Federal wildlife authorities have launched an investigation into a video circulating online that appears to show an individual kicking a sea lion on a beach in California. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) confirmed it is aware of the footage and is actively looking into the incident.
The video, the contents of which have not been independently verified by this news organization, reportedly shows a person on a beach approaching a sea lion and then appearing to kick the animal. The specific beach location and the date the incident occurred were not immediately available.
Interfering with or harming marine mammals is a violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Under this federal law, individuals can face significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for harassing, hunting, capturing, or killing marine mammals. The USFWS is responsible for enforcing this act.
Officials are urging anyone with information about the incident, including the identity of the person in the video or the exact location and time it took place, to come forward and assist with the investigation. Information can be provided anonymously.
The agency did not provide further details regarding the investigation or potential charges at this time, citing the ongoing nature of the inquiry. The outcome of the investigation is pending.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on fox8.com, see more information here.
