Wildlife specialists stress teamwork — and responsible fishing practices
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico — A sea lion injured by a fishing lure was successfully rescued Tuesday at the marina in Cabo San Lucas, following a swift, coordinated operation by marine wildlife specialists and local authorities that ended with the animal safely returned to the ocean.
The rescue was launched after reports surfaced of a female sea lion with a rapala-style fishing hook embedded in her face and neck — a potentially life-threatening injury. Because response teams were already monitoring the busy marina area, crews were able to locate the animal quickly and begin the operation without delay.
The sea lion was tracked and secured with assistance from response vessels, allowing rescuers to safely position the animal for treatment. Specialized wildlife veterinarians then administered a controlled sedative to protect both the animal and the rescue team.
Once sedated, specialists carefully removed the fishing gear lodged in the sea lion’s mouth and neck. The team closely monitored her recovery until she regained full consciousness. Shortly afterward, the animal returned to the water on her own, showing no signs of distress.
The hands-on rescue with the sea lion lasted approximately 45 minutes, while the full operation — from location to release — took about one hour and 15 minutes, officials said.
Wildlife advocates involved in the effort praised the outcome as a clear example of how rapid response, training and cooperation can save marine life in high-traffic coastal areas. They also reiterated calls for responsible fishing practices to help prevent similar incidents.
“This was a team effort from start to finish,” rescuers said. “And today, it ended with a life saved.”
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