An investigation has been launched after footage of a man kicking a sea lion went viral.
The video caused mass outrage after the man was filmed kicking the animal in the face.
The disturbing footage shows him shadow boxing whilst squaring up to the sea lion before launching the kick at it.
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The resting animal was backed down by the man in a white t-shirt who struck it repeatedly as the poor animal tried to flee.
The shocking incident took place at La Jolla Cove, San Diego, California, as reported by Need To Know.
The clip went viral online on 24 Jul causing huge outrage and sparking a federal investigation.
The San Diego Police Department is aware of the video and revealed that the NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is currently investigating the situation.
A spokesperson for the police department said: “We have been made aware of this incident through numerous tags and messages.
“We agree this behaviour is completely unacceptable.
“The incident was not originally reported to the San Diego Police Department.
“It is being investigated by NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“We appreciate the public’s concern and encourage anyone with relevant information to contact the investigating agencies.”
The NOAA have informed the public that sea lions are federally protected.
Actions or attempts to harass, harm, pursue, feed, capture, injure, restrain, or kill can land perpetrators with fines or jail time.
A spokesperson for NOAA said: “NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement is investigating reports of a video on social media that shows an interaction between an individual and sea lion, allegedly in La Jolla Cove.
“In the video, the individual appears to be kicking the sea lion.
“This is an ongoing investigation, and we cannot provide further details at this time.
“Sea lions are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
“Actions or attempts to harass, harm, pursue, feed, capture, injure, restrain (no matter how temporarily), or kill may be punishable through fines or jail time.
“If you witness a potential Marine Mammal Protection Act violation, the best way you can help is to report the incident immediately to the NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement at (800) 853-1964.
“Investigations are most effective when detailed information is provided.
“Please provide as much information as possible regarding the incident witnessed.”
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