MMR Marine Mammal Rescue Centre Patient Directory

Story

This Steller sea lion, now named "Sea Lionel Richie", was rescued on Saturday from Island View Beach in Saanichton, Vancouver Island. The young male was first spotted by a member of the public on Friday. They became concerned when the animal let their dog approach it on the beach without reacting. The animal appeared to be very skinny and lethargic but seemed otherwise uninjured. After the animal was observed for another day, Fisheries and Oceans Canada authorized a rescue attempt, and the rescue centre team responded quickly. The animal was admitted at the rescue centre in Vancouver late on Saturday night, emaciated and weighing just over 43 kg (~95 lbs). He received fluids, and after a brief first examination was allowed to rest and spend the night under heat lamps. Staff will be using the next few days to stabilize the animal and perform further diagnostics. We would like to thank our local first responder, Veterinary Technologist Kit Thornton (former MMR staff member and trained responder) and her team for safely collecting the animal and transporting it to Swartz Bay Terminal. We also want to thank our partners at Fisheries and Oceans Canada for their support and BC Ferries for their assistance in getting the animal on and off the ferry as quickly as possible.

Patient Updates

After examination, the animal appears to around 2 years old. He is a little more responsive now, no longer as cold and has even shown a little bit of interest in his surroundings. Staff continue to work to stabilize the animal and will perform further diagnostics as his condition improves. For now, staff are doing their best to keep "Lionel" warm, comfortable and well hydrated.

February 7, 2022