𝗨𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗦𝗘𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗖𝗨𝗘: Lifeguards and Animal Control Officers Race to Save Stranded Mammal скачать в хорошем качестве

𝗨𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗦𝗘𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗖𝗨𝗘: Lifeguards and Animal Control Officers Race to Save Stranded Mammal

Santa Monica Beach, April 7, 2025 — A large male sea lion in distress was rescued from Santa Monica Beach on Monday, as the ongoing domoic acid crisis continues to impact marine life across Los Angeles County. The animal, exhibiting clear signs of neurological illness, was found along the shoreline under the watch of Santa Monica Police Animal Control Officers, who kept onlookers at bay until marine rescue crews arrived. Responding to the emergency call, personnel from the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) arrived approximately an hour and a half later, working alongside Santa Monica Police Animal Control and Los Angeles County Lifeguards to safely secure the sea lion and transport it to MMCC’s rehabilitation facility for urgent care. Jules, a responder with MMCC, confirmed that this incident is part of a wider regional outbreak. “We’re responding to the harmful algal bloom that’s affecting a lot of Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California right now,” she explained. “Animals like this out here are being affected by toxic algae.” The crisis is believed to be driven by domoic acid toxicosis, a neurological condition caused by harmful algal blooms off the California coastline. The blooms, triggered by the microscopic algae Pseudo-nitzschia australis, release domoic acid—a potent neurotoxin that builds up in small fish such as sardines and anchovies, the primary prey for sea lions. When consumed in large quantities, the toxin attacks the brain and heart, leading to seizures, disorientation, and, in severe cases, heart failure. “It works its way up from plankton, the algae, into the fish, then eventually, as the sea lions eat the fish, it gets ingested into their tissues,” Jules explained. “It can affect certain organ systems, particularly their heart and their brain, leading to all kinds of neurological problems.” While there is no specific cure, veterinarians at MMCC provide supportive care aimed at flushing the toxin from the animal’s system. Hydration therapy is administered to help eliminate the water-soluble toxin, alongside anti-seizure medications and domoic acid-free fish feed. MMCC’s veterinary team continues to research treatments that could reduce brain inflammation and mitigate long-term damage. Recovery depends on the severity of the exposure, but early intervention significantly improves the chance of survival and eventual return to the wild. Rescue teams across Los Angeles County have reported a sharp increase in stranded sea lions, compounding fears among conservationists and the public. “It’s affecting so many animals right now,” Jules said. “We’re getting hundreds of calls. So many animals are washing up on the beach, including dolphins as well. We’re just overwhelmed, and we thank everyone for their patience, and we appreciate everyone’s support.” Officials continue to urge the public to report sightings of sick or stranded marine mammals by calling 1-800-39-WHALE. Beachgoers are advised to keep a safe distance of at least 50 feet from affected animals, as they may be disoriented and potentially dangerous. Keeping pets leashed and alerting lifeguards to any stranded wildlife can help ensure the safety of both the public and the animals. The rising number of sea lion strandings highlights the growing environmental challenges facing California’s coastline. Toxic algal blooms are becoming more frequent, placing increasing pressure on marine ecosystems. Since its founding in 1992, MMCC has rescued and rehabilitated over 8,000 stranded marine mammals, making it one of the busiest facilities of its kind in the country. The Santa Monica Beach rescue underscores the urgent need for public awareness, scientific research, and community support for organizations like MMCC. As toxic algae continues to impact marine life, collaborative efforts remain critical to protecting California’s vulnerable coastal species. Contact: Marine Mammal Care Center 📞 1-800-39-WHALE 🌐 marinemammalcare.org