Our Stellar Sea Lions need help
Yesterday I discovered they had arrived.... while out in my kayak at a rather alarming close proximity. No need to be alarmed though they won't hurt you although they are curious. The most popular viewing point for Sea Lions is located mid-Vancouver Island at Fanny Bay, the Sea Lions have been using the floating breakwater boom there for years, a must-see destination here on our beautiful island. Recently great minds decided it was time to put an end to the Sea Lions resting at Fanny Bay and drove a barrier into the boom now they are unable to get out of the water to warm up and rest. The Stellar Sea Lions are a threatened species on the SARA Special Concern watch list, part of the recommendations to help their survival is not to remove or disturb their pull-outs or resting areas. Unfortunately, I have not found any petitions to help stop what seems like a reckless decision. I will have to start one, I will be sure to post more information. I did find a phone number 250-897-5049 for the Harbour Authority I would imagine numerous phone calls would get their attention....and really... long distance is so inexpensive these days :) The Harbour Authority has responded saying this is for safety reasons which may be valid, however, why not build another floating boom dedicated to the Sea Lions, seems like a simple fix. Stellar's numbers are in a steep decline we need to help while we can. I have to thank Margo Ayotte www.flickr.com/photos/134145819@N07/ she has just posted a photo of the barrier www.flickr.com/photos/134145819@N07/26207113349/in/datepo...
for informing me, she visited the harbour authority but was unable to get them to reconsider.