At least 14 sea lions have been reportedly sick off the coast of Malibu, due to toxins produced by harmful algae flowers, according to the California Wildlife Center.
According to a social media post, over the past five days, the California Wildlife Center team has responded to calls of at least 14 sick sea lions. Based on the animal’s behavior, experts believe that sea lions are sick due to domo acid exposure.
Domain acids are neurotoxins produced by harmful algae flowers that accumulate in filter-feeding fish such as anchovy and sardines. These fish are then eaten by seals, sea lions and dolphins.
A similar outbreak was recorded last summer, not only of two dolphins and two dolphins along the coast of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo County, but of more than 70 sea lions.
Exposure damages the brain and heart of a mammal. Symptoms include seizures, head movements known as “starskies,” and coma. Experts advise humans not to interact with animals that are thought to be sick, as they may bite or charge without warning.
Animals can be treated, but it is difficult for adult women to move to facilities that weigh up to 250 pounds and adult men to 1,000 pounds.
“Malibu residents, visitors and other beach fans will be calling or texting Marine Corps teams at (310) 924-7256, seeking support for suffering animals, by distance from the animals on the beach. I recommend it,” according to the Wildlife Center.
