Domoic acid surge sickens sea lions coastwide

A surge in domoic acid is sickening sea lions along California’s Central Coast and Bay Area, prompting a coordinated response from wildlife officials. The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito says it rescued 15 to 20 sick sea lions over a three-day period, with many showing seizures, disorientation, and abnormal behavior. Officials have not identified a definitive cause for the spike, and deaths have been reported, including at least three sea lions in Monterey County. Response crews are transporting affected animals to shelters and monitoring hotspots along the shore, including Moss Landing, as experts investigate toxin exposure from harmful algal blooms. Public guidance emphasizes contacting the Marine Mammal Center instead of approaching distressed sea lions to ensure safety for both animals and people.