Officials investigate after video appears to show person kicking sea lion

Federal wildlife authorities are investigating a video that appears to show a person kicking a federally protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California. NOAA confirmed the probe but did not share additional details Sunday. In the footage, a person follows the sea lion while throwing kicks as it tries to move away; laughter can be heard in the background. NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement said it is investigating reports from social media showing an interaction between an individual and a sea lion, allegedly at La Jolla Cove, and that the person appears to be kicking the animal. The individual has not been publicly identified. Sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and NOAA advises people to stay at least 50 feet (15 meters) away. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said local police have been directed to review the video.