On Friday morning, a sea lion was discovered washed up on the beach near the Santa Monica Pier, prompting a swift response from a sea-mammal rescue group. The animal was alive but gravely ill, while another sea lion nearby was also in distress.
Both sea lions were assigned ID numbers, marking them as the 193rd and 195th patients of the year for the rescue group. This incident is part of a larger crisis affecting marine life along the Southern California coastline, where numerous animals, including sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds, have been found either dead or severely ill.
The primary cause of this crisis is a neurotoxin known as domoic acid, produced by harmful algal blooms. While harmless to fish, the toxin can be fatal to marine mammals and birds that consume contaminated fish, leading to symptoms such as seizures and disorientation. Treatment involves flushing out the toxin and managing symptoms.
Researchers have noted an increase in the levels of this toxin in marine life, raising concerns about the potential effects of climate change and nutrient runoff from land on algal blooms. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is investigating whether debris from recent wildfires may have contributed to the current situation.
In recent weeks, the number of animal rescue calls has surged, with SeaWorld in San Diego experiencing a dramatic increase from 20 to 100 calls per day. The situation has particularly impacted dolphins, with over 100 common dolphins reported washed up on beaches, many of which have had to be euthanized due to the severity of their condition.
Local authorities have issued advisories to keep the public away from stranded animals, as the presence of sick marine life has created a somber atmosphere along the Southern California coastline. Observers have reported seeing a number of distressed sea lions along the shore.
The Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro, the primary rescue organization in Los Angeles County, has been overwhelmed by the influx of animals. The center's annual budget typically accommodates around 300 animals, but they have already treated 200 this year, primarily due to the algal bloom.
Rescue efforts have included setting up improvised pens to accommodate the surge in patients. Two sea lions, identified as 25-193 and 25-195, were successfully rescued and transported to the center, where they were examined and treated. One of the sea lions was found to be pregnant, necessitating an abortion for her survival.
Both sea lions are currently stable and recovering, having been given names, Carlin and Kelley, as they continue their rehabilitation.