, and over fishing. (8) Regardless of the cause, with a dwindling food supply, Pelicans have to search farther and farther for food and often abandon their nests while doing so. Other species who similarly depend on the sardine population, such as sea lions, were commonly in the news in recent years when an alarming number of their starving pups were found abandoned. Ocean conservation group, Oceana, successfully urged the Pacific Fisheries Council to halt commercial sardine fishing for the 2015-2016 year; and it still remains closed.
As for anchovies, however, the outlook is grim. In October 2016, the National Marine Fisheries Service, which establishes annual fish catch limits, set the annual anchovy catch limit above the estimate of the entire anchovy population. According to Geoff Shester, California Campaign Director for Oceana, “[t]his decision by federal fishery managers will jeopardize the potential recovery of the fishery in the future and leave already food starved dependent predators without enough to eat.” (9)
Sustainable fishing practices are only one element in the delicate balance of our ecosystem. In this time of unprecedented climate change with increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and rising ocean temperatures, environmental regulations and sustainability are critical to maintain this big picture balance. As responsible citizens to this planet, we must all do our parts while demanding that our government maintain strong environmental regulations. We must be an example to the rest of the world. Suggestions to get involved: Contact your local representatives regarding your concerns and/or pending legislation; Volunteer for environmental organizations that matter to you; Share your opinions with local business leaders, friends, and family.
“When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.” – John Muir
Case History of C83
- Adult female rescued in January 2010 from Santa Barbara
- Stabilized at the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network until transfer to IBR’s LA Wildlife Center in San Pedro, CA on 01/12/2010 to continue care
- Treated for a chest wound consistent with a California Sea Lion bite
- Released on 01/29/2010 at White Point Beach, San Pedro, CA
- Sightings: 7/31/2013 at Pismo Beach, CA; 7/23/2016 in Alameda, CA; 7/24/2016, 7/27/2016, 7/30/2016, 8/20/2016 at Pillar Point, CA; 2/16/2017 at Malibu, CA