A sea lion that was rescued last week and named after Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen has sadly died, the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society announced Sunday.
Despite intensive care and treatment, Colonel Hansen (Colonel for short) succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, rescuers shared.
The adult male California sea lion was rescued in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island April 6 and brought to the mainland severely underweight and lethargic.
The society says radiographs revealed birdshot in his head and chest, and irregularities in his shoulder that may reveal an underlying disease.
“Cases like Colonel’s are never easy, but they are important. Each patient helps us learn more, improving how we care for and protect marine mammals in the future,” VAMMR wrote in a statement on its website.
“We are incredibly grateful to our supporters, whose ongoing commitment makes this work possible.”
RELATED STORIES:
