SAN FRANCISCO, CA — A sea lion pup was rescued Thursday in San Francisco, where it was found wandering the streets far away from its natural habitat, authorities said.
Officials with The Marine Mammal Center said the sea lion pup was found near 48th and Irving streets early Thursday morning.
The pup, which rescuers named Irving, was safely put into a carrier crate and taken to the San Francisco Parks and Recreation Ranger Station near Kezar Stadium, TMMC officials said. Irving has since been transferred to a hospital in Sausalito.
It's unclear why Irving was so far away from its usual habitat. Veterinary experts are currently evaluating the pup's condition and checking it for any underlying illnesses, TMMC officials said.
"We are grateful for the quick action, dedication and support from our partners that allowed this young animal to be rescued in the wee hours of the morning, giving Irving a second chance," TMMC officials said.
The Marine Mammal Center added that people should keep their distance from marine animals and call their rescue hotline at 415-289-7325 to report animals in distress between Mendocino County and San Luis Obispo County.
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