Seals Shot, Salmon at Risk | Seattle News

A baby harbor seal pup found near Bellingham was euthanized after vets discovered bullet fragments in its head — the third seal shot in the head in just nine months. This isn’t just random violence; it’s illegal under federal law, and it’s sparking outrage as lawmakers in Congress consider weakening protections for seals and sea lions to supposedly help struggling salmon runs. A bipartisan bill is moving through the House, giving Washington and tribal nations limited authority to remove seals and sea lions deemed threats to salmon — while also funding non-lethal deterrents. It’s a high-stakes, emotionally charged dilemma: protecting endangered marine mammals versus preserving vital salmon populations that sustain communities and ecosystems. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/13de31a2fa2ed0f9