It is marine lion alarm in California: many sick and disoriented specimens due to a toxic algae

The Southern California coasts they are facing an unprecedented environmental emergency: a Growing number of sick and disoriented marine lions it is found beachedby alerting the local authorities and marine rescue centers. At the basis of the problem there is one toxic algal flowering which, for the fourth consecutive year, affects the coastal waters with devastating effects on marine fauna.

This flowering, favored by higher marine temperaturesproduces a powerful neurotoxicthehomeic acidwhich accumulates in fish like sardine And anchoviesbasic food of many marine species, including marine lions, seal And dolphins.

When these animals ingest the poison, they show serious symptoms like convulsions, disorientation, lethargy and even aggressive behavior. Some specimens show the typical “Stargazing“, That is the continuous lifting of the head upwards, an indication of neurological damage.

Attacks with surfers and swimmers multiply

According to the Marine Mammal Care Center in Los Angeles, the number of affected animals is in worrying increase. Only between February and March 2025, they were welcomed Almost 200 marine lionsagainst 50 of the same period of 2023. The structure, which can accommodate up to 120 animals, is already almost saturated. The situation is made even more critical by the fact that many of the rescue specimens are pregnant femaleswhich risk spontaneous abortions or interruptions of pregnancy due to stress and toxins.

In addition to health problems, affected animals are also becoming a danger to humans. Some recent cases document attacks on surfers and swimmerswith bites and abnormal behaviors attributed to the neurological effects of toxin. The authorities recommend maintain a distance of at least 15 meters from the beached animals and to avoid any type of interaction, even if the animal seems docile.

Experts are investigating the possible causes that make these algal blooms increasingly early and violent. Among the suspicions there are residues of forest fires and the use of Flame delayers which could enrich the water of harmful nutrients. Whatever the reason, the alarm is serious: if measures are not taken, 2025 It could become the most lethal year ever recorded for California marine mammals.