A woman strolling along Point Pinos Beach in Pacific Grove, California, reported witnessing a man and his daughter engaged in the gruesome act of mutilating a deceased seal. This alarming incident has raised significant concerns regarding potential violations of marine mammal protection laws.
Rashelle Diaz, accompanying a friend during their beach walk, noticed the pair bending over, using tools to saw at a carcass. She recounted, “He was decapitating a seal he had already skinned and separating the skull from the body.” Disturbed by their actions, Diaz confronted the man, reminding him that such behaviour is illegal, stating that “90 per cent of the locals in Monterey are aware … you cannot go near a seal alive or dead; it’s the law.”
The man claimed to possess a permit for marine biology research, but Diaz observed that he lacked appropriate safety gear and identification. She noted his unprofessional appearance, mentioning he was dressed in flip-flops and casual clothing, wielding a substantial hunting knife. Despite her warnings, the man persisted in his actions and departed the scene with a seal skull in a plastic bag.
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary has reiterated the legal stipulations surrounding marine mammals, forbidding possession of any part of these animals, whether alive or deceased. Milos Radakovich from the sanctuary expressed concern, commenting, “People have this notion of wanting a piece of marine mammal. It’s not something you often see, and, of course, it is highly illegal.” Under Californian law, individuals require a research or educational permit to possess any marine mammal parts, such as bones or skin. For the general public, illegal possession can result in severe consequences.
In situations involving deceased marine animals, advocates recommend contacting the Moss Landing Marine Lab, which can handle the retrieval and necropsy of the animal to ascertain the cause of death. While Diaz reached out to authorities regarding the incident, her inability to provide a licence plate number hindered the possibility of further action.
This disturbing event highlights the importance of protecting marine wildlife and adhering to laws designed to ensure their safety. The community is encouraged to report any similar occurrences to the proper authorities to prevent further unlawful activities against these vulnerable creatures.