Hazing Nuisance Seals and Sea Lions With Paint Balls

February 25, 2010

Question:If I am fishing and am continually harassed by seals and sea lions, is it lawful to shoot them with a non-lethal paint ball? (T. Jay D.)

Answer: DFG does not manage or regulate interactions with marine mammals. California sea lions and Pacific harbor seals have been federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act since 1972, and thus harassing, capturing, killing or attempting to do so is prohibited and carries a hefty fine. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in recent years the populations of these animals have increased dramatically and are now considered healthy and robust.

Unfortunately, with the good often comes the bad – the increased abundance of animals has also resulted in a growing number of negative interactions with humans and incidents of property damage. People seeking legal methods for deterring marine mammals in order to protect their property, fishing gear and catch from damage by sea lions and seals can find recommendations and approved methods on NOAA’s Web site at http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/Marine-Mammals/Seals-and-Sea-Lions/Deterring-Pinnipeds.cfm. And yes, paint balls are an approved method that may be used under certain conditions, but please read the NOAA information before doing so.

This is AWSOME!! Bringing the paint ball setup next outing!!