A juvenile Galápagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) was rescued after being found near the shoreline of Palo Seco beach in Puntarenas province, according to officials with the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC).

Residents alerted authorities after spotting the unusual marine mammal just a few meters from the beach. The sea lion, which is not native to Costa Rica, was wandering alone when found.

Officials believe the animal may have originated from Cocos Island National Park where small groups of Galápagos sea lions have occasionally been observed hunting along the coast for short periods. The island, located about 310 miles southwest of the mainland, has had repeated sightings of the species.

Authorities suspect the sea lion may have become lost while searching for food or evading a threat, eventually making its way to Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast.

The sea lion was transported to a rescue center, where it underwent a medical evaluation and received treatment.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Galápagos sea lion is native to the Galápagos Islands, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Smaller populations are also found on Isla de la Plata in Ecuador, Gorgona Island in Colombia, and occasionally on Cocos Island.

Experts urge the public to maintain a safe distance from sea lions, despite their often friendly appearance. Approaching or disturbing them can pose risks to both the animals and people.

Recently, another non-native species, an American flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber), was spotted in Limón Province.

SINAC manages Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas.