Wandering sea lion rescued from California highway

Feb. 18 (UPI) -- The California Highway Patrol came to the rescue of a juvenile sea lion that wandered onto a busy highway in the San Francisco Area.

CHP San Francisco said on social media that officers responded to U.S. Highway 101 after a sea lion -- initially misidentified as a seal -- was seen in the northbound lanes, near the Candlestick Park off-ramp.

"The reporting party was able to avoid a collision with the seal pup, but was concerned that another vehicle may strike and hurt it," the post said.

The driver assisted officers with guiding the sea lion to the right shoulder, through an opening in the retaining wall and back into the San Francisco Bay.

The CHP, mistaking the animal's species, dubbed the animal "Lou Seal."

"We never know what to expect on any given day," the post said. "CHP officers are always ready and willing to ensure safety, service, and security to all, including those with flippers and even lost members of Lou Seal's family."