00:00California is seeing an unusually high number of sea lions sickened by domoic acid poisoning.
00:05More than 100 affected sea lions have been rescued so far in 2026.
00:10Most of those rescues have occurred since July 1st.
00:13The Marine Mammal Center normally treats about 75 to 90 cases in a full year.
00:18This year's total has already surpassed that average by September.
00:22The cases are heavily concentrated around California's Monterey Peninsula.
00:26Domic acid is a marine toxin produced by algae during harmful algal blooms.
00:32The toxin can build up in fish such as anchovies and sardines.
00:35Sea lions can become severely ill after eating those contaminated fish.
00:40The poisoning can cause seizures and, in serious cases, heart failure.
00:44The Marine Mammal Center says these outbreaks are becoming more unpredictable.
00:48Experts are also monitoring the animals as indicators of changing ocean conditions.
00:53Treatment includes fluids, uncontaminated fish, and anti-seizure medication.
00:59Officials urge people to stay at least 150 feet away from sick marine wildlife.
01:04They say the public should report distressed sea lions rather than approaching or touching them.
01:09Disclosure.
01:10This video contains stock footage and content created or enhanced using AI-assisted tools, AI-generated.
01:15He's a man leading experience judgment on Marsing land.
