While specialized help was on the way, police took on the task of keeping a sea lion safe on a California roadway.
The animal had wandered onto the road, prompting an unexpected police escort.
Here's what to know
Hayward police officers and municipal animal control staff arrived to help the sea lion in the middle of the road, according to KRON.
It remained unclear how the marine mammal reached the roadway or how far it had traveled.
The Marine Mammal Center was called to take over the animal's care, joining a response that also involved local police and animal control personnel.
More background
A Hayward police vehicle was visible behind the sea lion in a police photo of the animal resting on the pavement, KRON reported.
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Although the animal was described as appearing healthy, that observation was not a medical assessment.
The report did not establish whether human activity contributed to the sea lion's misadventure.
The BBC reported that unexpected human-wildlife encounters are on the rise, citing higher average temperatures, habitat loss, and urban sprawl as driving factors.
What's being done?
While waiting for specialized help, officers "made sure their new friend stayed safe," according to a department social media post about the response.
KRON reported that Hayward officers had moved the animal to safety off the road.
The report did not provide a medical diagnosis, a treatment plan, or details about a release.
The wait for marine mammal personnel included what the department described as "a little playtime" enjoyed by officers and their unexpected guest, per KRON.
By that point, the sea lion was safely out of the roadway.
Where can I learn more?
Police and wildlife rescuers have stepped in to help other animals in trouble, too. These stories follow a rescued seal, an injured otter, and a hawk in need of rehabilitation.
• A Maine fisherman rescued an orphaned seal that later mimicked his voice, saying, "Hello there."
• In Vacaville, Calif., a river otter struck by a car was expected to be released soon.
• A roadside hawk received rehabilitation help after a Reddit post highlighted its difficulty flying.
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