Overview
- Confetti, an adult male sea lion rescued from Ballona Creek on Jan. 5, is under care at the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro.
- Skull X-rays taken during initial exams revealed two bullets embedded in his head, with the source of the shootings unknown.
- Rescue officials say gunshot injuries in stranded sea lions are not uncommon in Southern California and sometimes stem from conflicts with fishers.
- Blood tests showed liver abnormalities along with leptospirosis and dehydration, and staff initiated antibiotics, supportive medications, and fluids.
- After early lethargy and refusal to eat, he became alert by day four, chased and ate live fish by day seven, and accepted herring by day eight, reflecting ongoing recovery helped by public reports that prompted the rescue.