Sea lion dies in Santa Teresita after being shot

A sea lion weighing nearly 200 kilograms died in Santa Teresita after being shot in the shoulder. The animal was discovered under a pier in critical condition and was subsequently transported to the Mundo Marino Foundation Rescue Center, where it died shortly after arrival.

A necropsy revealed that the projectile caused a bone fracture and severe lung contusion. Because the wound remained untreated for several days, the animal developed sepsis, which ultimately led to cardiorespiratory arrest. Additionally, remains of fishing nets were found in the animal's digestive system.

Conservation specialists from the BioCosta Foundation and Mundo Marino Foundation are investigating the incident. The primary hypothesis suggests an intentional attack, possibly by fishermen who view marine mammals as obstacles to their work when the animals approach boats to feed.