SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A dramatic wildlife rescue captured by drone footage is highlighting both the power of teamwork and the dangers of ocean plastic pollution.
A near-threatened Steller’s sea lion was spotted in the Salish Sea with a plastic packing strap tightly wrapped around its neck, cutting deep into its skin. Thanks to a multi-agency effort, including scientists from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA), the animal is now swimming free once again.
The rescue, featured in the video above, was part of a broader marine wildlife monitoring initiative led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), focusing on killer whale populations in the Salish Sea. A spokesperson from SDZWA, who provided the footage to FOX 5/KUSI, explained the situation.
When the entangled sea lion was identified, drone footage confirmed the severity of its condition. SDZWA scientists operating the drone were able to pinpoint the animal’s exact location, allowing response teams to act swiftly.
Marine mammal experts from the SeaDoc Society, The Whale Museum, and veterinarians from the Vancouver Aquarium collaborated to carry out the rescue. The process involved administering anesthesia, carefully removing the plastic strap, and closely monitoring the animal’s recovery after the procedure.
Shortly after, the rescued sea lion was seen swimming freely and feeding normally.
This rescue highlights how the use of drones and other innovative tools are enabling scientists and conservationists to protect wildlife more effectively than ever before.
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