Sea Lion Killings Remain Unsolved, Reward Offer Still Stands

Washington State - The Humane Society of the United States and The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are renewing a request for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for illegally “taking” multiple California sea lions and Steller sea lions in southern Washington and northern Oregon. A reward of up to $2,500 offered by the groups adds to an additional reward of up to $2,500 per animal “taken” as authorized by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act.

According to published media reports, multiple sea lions, most with gunshot wounds, were discovered on beaches in southern Washington and northern Oregon during the spring of 2012. The animals were found near the mouth of the Columbia River.

“Every day that goes by is another without justice for these animals. Someone out there has information about this case and we hope this incentive encourages people with information to come forward,” said Dan Paul, Washington state director for The HSUS. “The Humane Society of the United States thanks NOAA for its continued commitment to investigating this case.”

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Both species of sea lion are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and Steller sea lions are further protected by the Endangered Species Act.

Investigators ask that anyone with information about this case contact NOAA at 360-268-6239. Callers may remain anonymous.

Poaching:

• Poachers injure or kill wildlife anytime, anywhere and sometimes do so in particularly cruel ways. Wildlife officials report that poachers often commit other crimes as well.
• The HSUS and HSWLT work with state and federal wildlife agencies to offer rewards of $2,500 for information leading to arrest and conviction of suspected poachers.

The HSUS and HSWLT work to curb poaching across the country. Visit humanesociety.org/poaching for more information.