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Sea lion found beheaded at San Francisco's Ocean Beach, prompting investigation
Wildlife experts say the animal was likely beheaded after death, and officials warn that taking marine mammal parts can bring jail time and fines.
Authorities are investigating a decapitated sea lion discovered at San Francisco's Ocean Beach on Friday; wildlife experts believe the animal was beheaded after it had already died.
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, collecting parts from marine mammal carcasses is strictly prohibited and punishable by up to one year in jail and up to $36,000 in criminal fines.
Sue Pemberton of the California Academy suggested individuals might collect parts for the "novelty of having a trophy," noting "Sometimes the legality of it doesn't really stop people."
Last year, a beachgoer in Pacific Grove allegedly removed a seal's head and attempted to carry it away in a Ziploc bag, marking a similar incident to yesterday's discovery.
Officials urge the public to leave stranded or dead marine mammals alone and immediately report sightings to local wildlife authorities or the Marine Mammal Stranding Network.