For the fourth year in a row, toxic algae blooms are killing California Sea lions. Marine mammal experts are calling it unprecedented.
The Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) in San Pedro says they've recently rescued 20 sea lions and counting, with about 30-40% of them dying.
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"We are seeing sea lions with clinical classic signs of Domoic Acid Toxicosis throughout Los Angeles County," MMCC CEO John Warner told KNX News' Emily Valdez. "Then our partners in Orange County, Santa Barbara, Ventura County, and San Diego are all seeing animals with Domoic Acid Toxicosis symptoms as well."
Warner says the toxic scourge is not due to runoff from the fires, but humans do contribute to it.
"That is a naturally occurring algae that we have seen off the shore of California since 1991. And while it's naturally occurring, it's exacerbated by human activities such as climate change, warming, surface temperatures, acidification, etc."
Symptoms related to Domoic Acid Toxicosis include seizures, tremors, foaming at the mouth, swinging their heads back and forth repeatedly, or getting stuck in a sphinx-like position.
Anyone who sees a sea lion on a beach near people is asked to contact a lifeguard or call the care center at 415-289-SEAL with details about the animal and your location.
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