Two People Sought for Throwing Rocks at Elephant Seal at Point Reyes
The National Park Service is asking for the public’s help identifying two people accused of harassing an elephant seal at Point Reyes National Seashore earlier this month.
According to the National Park Service, the incident was captured on video from the Chimney Rock livestream on Dec. 6 around 3:40 p.m. Footage shows two individuals throwing rocks toward an elephant seal that was resting on a beach near Chimney Rock.
Park officials say one of the individuals appeared to be a woman with black hair wearing a white baseball cap, a red and dark-colored jacket with blue and gold accents, and blue jeans. Video indicates that rocks she threw struck the animal. The second individual appeared to be a man wearing a dark jacket with neon-yellow accents, including a neon-lined hood, and carrying what looked like a large DSLR-style camera. He was also seen throwing rocks in the direction of the seal.
The NPS said the actions appeared deliberate and emphasized that elephant seals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, as well as additional park wildlife regulations. Harassing marine mammals can result in serious penalties, including fines and potential criminal charges.
Anyone who recognizes the individuals or has information about the incident is urged to contact the National Park Service tip line at 888-653-0009.
Park officials also remind visitors to keep a safe distance from wildlife and respect seasonal closures and viewing guidelines when visiting Point Reyes and other coastal parks.
