Wildlife officials believe that the toxic algae Bloom is responsible for making some California sea lions sick in Malibu.
The California Wild Dryon Center said it received 14 calls over the weekend for sea lions over four days.
“We have not confirmed the cause of disease in these animals, but their signs and recent rain make the situation very suspicious about domo acid toxicity,” the CWC posted on Facebook on Saturday. I did.
Domo acid (DA) is an algae flower caused by a single-cell organism called Pseudo-Nitzschia, CWC said. “There are benign and toxic strains that can expose animals to the ingestion of contaminated fish. In its toxic form, da damages the brain and heart even at low doses.”
A affected sea lions may have a seizure and may exhibit head movements known as “starry skies,” and may appear to be extremely lethargic or coma.
“These animals are suffering and confused. Do not interact directly with animals such as distressed sea lions as they may charge and bite without warning,” the CWC said.
Malibu residents and beach fans were urged to separate from animals and text the CWC Marines team at 310-924-7256 for assistance in the face of suffering animals.
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