Wildlife officials believe a toxic algae bloom is responsible for sickening several California sea lions in Malibu.
The California Wildlife Center said over the weekend that it had received 14 calls in four days for sea lions in distress.
“Though we have not confirmed the cause for these animals’ illness, their signs and the recent rains make the situation highly suspicious for domoic acid toxicity,” CWC posted on Facebook Saturday.
Domoic acid (DA) is an algal bloom resulting from a single-celled organism called Pseudo-nitzschia, CWC said. “There are benign and toxic strains which animals may be exposed to through ingestion of contaminated fish. In its toxic form, DA damages the brain and heart, even in low doses.”
Affected sea lions may have seizures, display a craning head motion known as “stargazing” and may appear highly lethargic or in comatose states.
“These animals are suffering and confused; do not interact directly with animals such as sea lions in distress as they may lunge and bite without warning,” CWC stated.
Malibu residents and beachgoers were urged to stay away from the animals or text the CWC Marine team at 310-924-7256 for assistance with distressed animals.
