Sea lion recovering in LA after marine center found two bullets in his head

"Skull X-rays taken during the sea lion's initial exams revealed the two bullets in his head, indicating that this was actually the second time he had narrowly escaped death, the center wrote. Sadly, it is not unusual to find sea lions that have been shot by humans, highlighting the prevalence of violence these animals face. Many die, but some, like Confetti, survive, the center said."

"When Confetti was first rescued, the group's veterinary experts put the sea lion on supportive medications and antibiotics and gave him fluids to help with dehydration. Confetti was markedly lethargic upon arrival at our hospital and remained that way for the first few days in care. He showed no interest in fish and rarely moved. Our veterinary experts were quite concerned given his poor condition and lack of improvement."

Confetti was rescued from Ballona Creek, a watershed connected to Santa Monica Bay, on 5 January and transported to the Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles. Skull X-rays revealed two bullets lodged in his head. Confetti tested positive for leptospirosis and showed concerning liver abnormalities and dehydration. Veterinary staff administered supportive medications, antibiotics, and fluids. Confetti was markedly lethargic, showed no interest in fish, and rarely moved for the first few days. By day four he became more alert and mobile. By day seven he chased and ate live fish and later ate herring, indicating significant recovery.

Read at www.theguardian.com