Help Us Report Sea Lions with Domoic Acid Poisoning Across California Coast
Help Us Report Sea Lions with Domoic Acid Poisoning Across California Coast
Sadly, sea lions across the California coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning once again. Last year, this dangerous toxin affected thousands of marine mammals, leading to widespread illness and death. Sadly, the crisis has reemerged, and sea lions urgently need our help.
During the domoic crisis in 2023, we encountered a beautiful sea lion in Solana Beach who was clearly in distress. We observed him on the sand, displaying unusual behavior such as sudden head weaving—a common symptom of domoic acid poisoning. Concerned for his well-being, we immediately contacted the nearest marine mammal rescue center and stayed by his side until help arrived from SeaWorld Rescue San Diego. The situation was made more challenging by the busy summer beach day, with crowds and children unknowingly approaching and disturbing the sea lion.
Domoic acid poisoning in sea lions can cause severe symptoms including stargazing (an abnormal upward gaze), disorientation, head weaving, mouth foaming, lethargy, and erratic behavior. The toxin leads to seizures and severe brain inflammation, which, if not addressed promptly, can cause irreversible brain damage and death.
How You Can Help:
Report Distressed Sea Lions: If you encounter a sea lion showing signs of distress, contact the nearest marine mammal rescue center immediately.
Marin County: The Marine Mammal Center (415) 289-7325
Los Angeles: Marine Mammal Care Center (424) 450-0570
Orange County: Pacific Marine Mammal Center (949) 494-3050
San Diego: SeaWorld Rescue 1-800-541-SEAL (7325)
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the sea lion and guard the animal until rescuers arrive.
Ensure Public Awareness: Help keep beachgoers and dogs away from the sea lion to minimize stress and potential harm until rescuers arrive.
Join the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Group Wildlife Monitoring Team to assist in locating and reporting distressed sea lions. Sign up to be part of our efforts to protect these incredible animals and contribute to their recovery.
Rescue of a California Sea Lion we spotted in Solana Beach poisoned by domoic acid in June 2023
Call to Action:
In the face of this crisis, time is of the essence. Every second counts when it comes to locating and aiding a distressed wildlife and preventing further harm.
As part of our Wildlife Jewels Rescue Collective Group, we are issuing an urgent call for volunteers to join our efforts in monitoring the beaches and help us locate and report affected sea lions. We are seeking volunteers to stay near the stranded sea lions to protect them from potential disturbances until help arrives.
Your involvement could make a lifesaving difference in the recovery of these majestic sea lions.
How You Can Help:
Please join us to help save sea lions. Whether you have experience in wildlife rescue or simply a passion for protecting our natural habitats, your assistance is invaluable. You’ll simply be walking along the beach while reporting any signs of sickened sea lions.
To help us locate and report distressed sea lions, please submit the form below, and we will provide you with further information and detailed instructions.
Every single Sea Lion is precious and every single Sea Lion counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our magnificent Sea Lions.
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Sadly, sea lions across the California coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning once again. Last year, this dangerous toxin affected thousands of marine mammals, leading to widespread illness and death. Sadly, the crisis has reemerged, and sea lions urgently need our help.