Harbor seal pup rescued is third found shot in nine months

A harbor seal pup rescued near Bellingham is recovering after undergoing surgery for gunshot wounds, marking the third seal treated for similar injuries in the past nine months.

The seal remains in critical condition. Two other harbor seals rescued with gunshot wounds earlier this year later died from their injuries.

All three cases have been referred to NOAA law enforcement; harbor seals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Wildlife officials are reminding the public that harming or harassing marine mammals can carry significant criminal and financial penalties.