Community Corner

Young Sea Lion Rescued From San Rafael Roadway

Police, firefighters and locals used any items they could find to corral the wild sea lion.

The Marine Mammal Center will work to rehabilitate and eventually release “Pointer” back into the wild with other sea lions.
The Marine Mammal Center will work to rehabilitate and eventually release “Pointer” back into the wild with other sea lions. (Kimberly Olson Harris/Patch)

SAN RAFAEL, CA — Police and firefighters responded to a unique call on July 19 after receiving reports of a loose sea lion on San Rafael streets.

On July 19, the San Rafael Police Department began receiving calls about a sea lion wandering in the roadway of Point San Pedro Road.

Officers, firefighters and other community members used shields, a litter basket and cardboard in attempt to safely corral the sea lion over to Point San Pedro Bay Park.

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Police and firefighters responded to reports of a loose sea lion July 19. (San Rafael Police Department)

Police said because the sea lion was found on Point San Pedro Road, he was given the name Pointer.

Police called the Marine Mammal Center who took custody of Pointer.

Find out what's happening in San Rafaelfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Police, firefighters and locals used anything they could to try and encourage the sea lion to a nearby park. (San Rafael Police Department)

Police said it is believed that the sea lion was suffering from a bacterial infection.

The Marine Mammal Center will work to rehabilitate and eventually release Pointer back into the wild.

Once in Point San Pedro Bay Park, the sea lion named Pointer took advantage of the sprinklers. (San Rafael Police Department)

"It is important to remember that even though these animals can appear cute and friendly, they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable. We ask that if the public finds and encounters wild animals, that they not approach or corner the animal. Instead give the animal space and call for assistance," police said.

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