Woman Spots Huge Animal On Beach — Then Realizes She Needs Help

“I knew right away something was wrong …”
On a recent bike ride down Dockweiler Beach in Los Angeles, Conni Berry marveled at the bright blue sky and sea. But suddenly, Berry’s picturesque jaunt was interrupted by a shocking sight up ahead.

A sea lion was sitting in the sand about 100 yards from the water. There was foam spilling from her mouth, and she was swaying her head back and forth in an unusual way. Berry’s heart sank as she watched the animal struggle.

“I knew right away something was wrong with it,” Berry told The Dodo. “Immediately I became very worried.”

Eager to help, Berry called Marine Mammal Care Center for expert assistance.

As they waited for aid, Berry and her group stayed near the sea lion, making sure she was safe.

Soon, a Marine Mammal Care Center staff member arrived and secured the sea lion, later named Ariel, in a large net. Then, he moved her into a crate on wheels and carefully transported her into his rescue vehicle.

Ariel spent a few weeks recuperating at the center, enjoying time spent in her pool. Eventually, the resilient sea lion was ready to return to her ocean home.

Rescuers moved Ariel to a rocky beach and watched in awe as she slowly ambled back into the waves.

Berry is glad to have played a part in Ariel’s rescue. She knows this moment will stick with her for a long time.

“Participating in this rescue has given me an even greater respect for all sea life,” Berry said. “I have always been an animal lover and look forward to retiring so I can devote more time to volunteering at a local shelter.”