Wildlife Jewels® Rescue Resources San Diego Coastline
These resources help the public recognize signs of wildlife distress along the San Diego coastline and understand when—and who—to call for help. Wildlife Jewels® focuses on education, responsible observation, and supporting authorized wildlife response pathways.
If you encounter wildlife in distress, knowing **what helps—and what can cause harm—**can help save a life.
Marine Mammals (Seals & Sea Lions)
Seals and sea lions are protected under federal law, and resting on the beach can be normal behavior (especially during pupping season).
If a seal or sea lion appears injured, stranded, entangled, bleeding, or in immediate danger:
Keep at least 50 yards (150 feet) away
Do not approach, touch, feed, or attempt to help
Keep people and dogs well back
Avoid loud noises or sudden movements
Report immediately (San Diego County):
SeaWorld Rescue / Stranding Hotline: (800) 541-7325 (1-800-541-SEAL)
When you call, it is helpful to be on-site and actively observing the wildlife you’re reporting. Provide the exact location, the time observed, approximate size, and clear notes about condition (e.g., weak, injured, entangled, bleeding, lethargic).
Learn more about respectful seal and sea lion viewing in La Jolla through the San Diego Seal Society.
“All marine mammals are protected from being disturbed or harassed by the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act as well as California and City ordinances.”
Seabirds (Pelicans, Gulls, Cormorants, etc.)
If you observe a seabird with visible injury, entanglement, inability to stand/fly, or signs of distress, keep a respectful distance and contact an authorized responder for guidance.
📞 SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325
📞 San Diego Humane Society — Project Wildlife: (619) 299-7012
📞 Shalom Wildlife Hospital Solana Beach (858)755-1511
When you call, it is helpful to be on-site and actively observing the wildlife you’re reporting. Provide the exact location, the time observed, approximate size, and clear notes about condition (e.g., weak, injured, entangled, bleeding, lethargic).
Other Wildlife (Raccoons, Coyotes, Skunks, Raptors, etc.)
For injured or orphaned wildlife in San Diego County, contact:
📞 San Diego Humane Society — Project Wildlife: (619) 299-7012
📞 Shalom Wildlife Hospital Solana Beach (858)755-1511
When you call, it is helpful to be on-site and actively observing the wildlife you’re reporting. Provide the exact location, the time observed, approximate size, and clear notes about condition (e.g., weak, injured, entangled, bleeding, lethargic).
Signs of Wildlife Distress: What to Look For
To Report a Marine Mammal Violation
“To report marine mammal violations, such as people feeding, attempting to feed, or harassing marine animals in the wild, please call NOAA Fisheries' Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964. You may leave information anonymously.”
To Report a Poacher or Polluter
If you witness poaching, pollution, or any fish and wildlife violation, or have information about such activities, please call the toll-free CALTIP hotline at 1-888-334-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258). The line is available 24/7 to report violations. CALTIP - Californians Turn in Poachers and Polluters
Discover the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew (Pilot Program)
-
Join the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew (Volunteers)
Apply to join our Rescue Crew (Pilot)—training volunteers to observe, report, and route wildlife concerns responsibly.
Join the EYES™ Collective and Get Involved as a Volunteer Monitor or Community Reporter
-
Join the EYES Collective (Volunteers)
Become an EYES La Jolla Volunteer Monitor and help protect coastal wildlife by safely observing wildlife, spotting hazards, and providing valuable data that helps route distressed wildlife to authorized responders.
You choose the times and locations that work best for you!
-
Join the EYES Collective (Community Reporters)
Perfect for anyone who visits La Jolla often and wants to help.
Report distressed wildlife sightings, hazards, entanglements, or concerns from your everyday beach walks using simple observation guidelines.
