NOAA Seeks Information on Stabbing of Baby Seal in Neskowin, Oregon
Neskowin, Ore. (AP) — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is investigating a disturbing incident involving the stabbing of a baby seal on a beach in Neskowin, Oregon. The attack occurred in March and has raised alarms among conservation officials. Fortunately, the seal survived the assailant’s multiple stabs and has since been relocated with the assistance of NOAA’s marine stranding team.
Authorities are actively searching for a “person of interest” identified by a witness and are also investigating a vehicle parked near the cove where the attack took place. NOAA’s enforcement office encourages anyone with information about this incident to contact their hotline.
As juvenile elephant seals often haul out onto Oregon beaches in spring and summer to shed hair and skin, incidents like this pose a serious threat to these marine mammals. The Marine Mammal Protection Act strictly prohibits harm to seals and other marine wildlife, with violators facing potential fines up to $100,000 and imprisonment. NOAA’s ongoing investigation highlights their commitment to protecting marine life along the Pacific coast.
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