The entanglement of sea lions in fishing nets has been a problem
for quite some time around Isla Espiritu de Santo. So much so, that is has led to several conservation,
training and clean-up programs to try and protect them.
Over the last few days three sea lions have been
successfully disentangled from fishing nets that otherwise would have eventually
resulted in their death.
Experienced vets performed the required surgery after the
sea lions had been sedated. And on completion of the surgery they were
released back into their natural habitat. Special high tech transmitters have
allowed tracking of the animals. Thankfully, all three are reported as being
fully recovered and in perfect health.
This bring brings the total number of successfully disentangled
sea lions up to 7 since the project began in November 2015. The conservation
project includes two protected areas – Espiritu Santo Archipelago National Park
and the Wildlife Sloop.
An additional benefit that was derived from the saving of
these 3 animals was the training opportunity it provided to other staff
involved in similar operations in other parts of Baja California Sur.
Several local organizations were
involved including - PROFEPA, CONANP, SEMAR, tourist service providers
and the Marine Mammal Center California.
See more of our recent blogs on sea lions below .