A sea lion with multiple gunshot wounds was found on a Point Reyes beach, officials said.

The sea lion was spotted by visitors just a few feet from the surf. It had multiple holes on its right flank that are consistent with bullet wounds, according to a necropsy performed by researchers at the California Academy of Sciences.

The scientists say the sea lion was a 7-year-old male who was born on San Miguel Island. According to NOAA Fisheries researchers, the animal had routinely been seen around the island since its birth.

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The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits the harassment, hunting, capturing and killing of any marine mammal in the United States. Violators can be fined up to $28,520 and face one year of imprisonment.

If visitors notice dead, sick or injured animals, Point Reyes officials ask them to take photos and make notes about the scene, and notify visitor center staff.

"You are our eyes and ears out in the park and you can make a difference by reporting these sightings to us," park officials said in a statement on Facebook.

Read Michelle Robertson's latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com.

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