Bubba, sea lion struck by harpoon-like blade, dies at SeaWorld San Diego
A giant sea lion nicknamed Bubba swims in a recovery pool at SeaWorld San Diego’s animal rescue center May 27 after being impaled by a harpoon-like blade. Bubba later died of his injuries.
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A male sea lion brought to SeaWorld San Diego after being impaled with a harpoon-like blade has died, park officials said Thursday.
The animal was brought to SeaWorld for emergency care on May 26 after being found on a dock in the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard with a harpoon-like blade impaled in his side.
Dubbed Bubba by veterinarians, the sea lion was given antibiotics for several days but refused to eat when fish were offered.
On Wednesday, the sea lion was sedated to allow for an in-depth examination. During the exam, he went into cardiac arrest and could not be revived, park officials said.
A necropsy indicated a “significant” infection and other problems.
“The park’s veterinarians and animal care team had high hopes for Bubba’s recovery, and his death saddens all of us,” said SeaWorld spokeswoman Jennicca Taylor.
For more San Diego news, follow @LATSanDiego.
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