Today was my last day at the MMC, and it was busy. Much of the day was spent tending to Astro and Myrtle. Astro and Myrtle are Steller sea lions. Since Steller sea lions are on the threatened species list, they are kept in the quarantine area. This is to prevent them from exposure to the diseases that many California sea lions have, such as leptospirosis. Researchers believe that the major reason for the Steller's low population numbers is a decline in fish stocks. Also, sea lions spend a lot of time around fishing boats. They can end up tangled in nets or even shot by fishermen who see them as threat to their livelihood. It’s so hard to believe that there are people out there who would do this. However, there are because the MMC rescues sea lions with bullets, or even arrows, in their heads. This is highly illegal and can result in federal prosecution under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Astro and Myrtle were both rescued as pups stranded without there mothers. Myrtle is a little over a year old and Astro was born in June. Astro still had his umbilical cord attached when he was brought in! He is still a baby…a big baby! The staff is in the process of weening him off of his bottle, which is made up of ground Atlantic herring, salmon oil, and cream…yum! Just like a human baby, he is very reluctant to give it up. It was really fun to watch him take the bottle (see video). He makes such a funny noise. The goal is to release him by next Spring and Myrtle sooner. They need to be mature enough to be able to survive in the wild. (The picture to the left is Astro in June, with Sophie Guarasci, courtesty of the MMC. The picture to the right is of Astro today.)

It seemed so weird that my time at the MMC was ending, since I had so looked forward to being there. It was such a rewarding experience being able to work so closely with the marine mammals. Judging by the number of volunteers at the MMC, it seems that I am not alone in my fascination with these animals. I think people see a likeness in the marine mammals to themselves. It’s such a great thing, because without the help of volunteers and donors, many of these animals would not survive. I am so thankful that I was able to spend time there. It was an experience I will never forget. Next stop…the IBRRC in San Pedro, CA.