Seals Shot, Salmon at Risk | Seattle News

Seattle News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 22, 2026 · 1m

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…