Public urged to avoid sea lion basking at Vancouver beach

A sea lion lounging near Kitsilano's Spanish Banks dog park has caught teh attention of locals and wildlife rescue teams. (Courtesy: Nick)

Dog walkers and beachgoers in Vancouver’s West Point Grey neighbourhood are advised to be cautious of a sea lion that has settled near the Spanish Banks dog park.

According to a spokesperson for the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society, a team of wildlife experts were called in Friday morning after a number of residents noted the lone California sea lion basking in the sun on the beach.

Such visitors are common in B.C. waters, particularly at this time of the year when the salmon runs are taking place.

At the time, the male sea lion was exhibiting “normal behaviours,” and the team will continue to monitor the animal as the day goes on. It will work with the DFO to respond if and when it is deemed necessary, the spokesperson said.

The VAMMRS is advising the public to avoid the area until the animal has moved on.

“We want to remind the public to stay away from this sea lion,” the spokesperson said.

It is illegal in Canada to disturb marine mammals. According to Canada’s Marine Mammal Regulations, “no person shall disturb a marine mammal except” unless that person is carrying out authorized work or authorized fishing.

Disturbing, according to the regulations, includes approaching the marine mammal to feed it, swim with it, interact with it, or entice it to move from where it was found.