Ocean Institute Volunteers Join in Effort to Save "Preemie" Sea Lion Pup

DANA POINT, CA, May 7, 2009 - Docents for the Ocean Institute's Tidepool Interpretive Program (TIP) attempted to rescue a sea lion pup born pre-maturely Sunday in the Dana Point Marine Protected Area near the Institute. The pup's mother gave birth on the shore and abandoned the pup; docents contacted the Pacific Marine Mammal Center (www.pacificmmc.org).

The staff at the center tried to save the pup, but her lungs and digestive system were not fully developed. Sea lions are typically born in June and July, so the pup came at least a month early. Michele Hunter, Director of Operations/Animal Care, related, "I cared for the pup through the night, and the next morning she went downhill... we gave her oxygen and did everything we could, but she passed away."

Members of the public visiting the beach who see seals or sea lions in distress are encouraged to call the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, (949) 494-3050.

Become a TIP Volunteer! The City of Dana Point and the Ocean Institute have taken responsibility for the management and protection of the natural resources within the Dana Point Marine Protected Area. The TIP Docent program was established in response to the high number of visitors to the rocky intertidal areas of the Dana Point Headlands. Docents positively enforce the "good tidepooler rules" through educating visitors about the research and conservation efforts in the Marine Protected Area. Docents educate visitors of all ages about the rocky intertidal ecosystem and the plants and animals that live there, while gently explaining the necessary protection of these valuable tidepool resources.

Motivated, reliable and energetic volunteers who interact well with the public are needed. Volunteers will learn the mission of the Ocean Institute and the City of Dana Point, MPA regulations and information about the rocky intertidal ecosystem. To become a volunteer, call (949) 496-2274.