Sea lion bites swimmer in Portugal and rescue operation in Brazil

Two swimmers – a tourist and a local resident – were bitten by a sea lion at Praia Formosa in Madeira, Portugal. Both suffered only minor injuries, and officials from the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) stressed that the animal is wild and urged people to avoid any interaction.

In Brazil, a juvenile South American sea lion was rescued from the Canal de São Sebastião on the northern coast of São Paulo after being observed near Ilhabela. The animal, showing signs of malnutrition and injuries likely caused by fishing gear, was taken to a rehabilitation centre in Ubatuba for veterinary care.

Both incidents highlight the need for public caution around marine mammals and the role of local rescue organisations.