X-rays Show Rescued Sea Lion from Ballona Creek Had Two Bullets in Its Head

Confetti the Sea Lion Recovers from Bacterial Infection After Rescue in Los Angeles

A sea lion rescued from Ballona Creek earlier this month is on the road to recovery following treatment for a bacterial infection. The incident has revealed troubling details about the animal’s history, suggesting this is not Confetti’s first encounter with danger.

During an initial examination, the Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles conducted skull X-rays and discovered two bullets lodged in the sea lion’s head. This unsettling finding underscores the violence that many sea lions face, a reality that the Care Center highlighted in a recent Facebook post. "Sadly, it is not unusual to find sea lions that have been shot by humans," the organization noted. "Many die, but some, like Confetti, survive."

Confetti, who became the Care Center’s first patient of the year, was rescued on January 5 from the channeled stream in southwestern Los Angeles County. He tested positive for leptospirosis, a serious bacterial infection that can severely impact the kidneys if left untreated. Additionally, blood tests indicated liver problems.

To aid in his recovery, Confetti received medications and fluids to combat dehydration. After a few days of treatment, he began to show signs of improvement. By the seventh day, Confetti was able to chase and eat live fish, marking a significant step toward his rehabilitation.