WATCH: ‘Demonic’ sea lions have Californians concerned

WATCH: ‘Demonic’ Sea Lions Have Californians Concerned

In recent weeks, California beachgoers have been on high alert as reports of erratic, aggressive sea lions have surfaced along the state’s coastline. These marine mammals, once beloved for their playful nature, have begun exhibiting troubling behaviors, leading to widespread concerns among locals and scientists alike. Some have even described the sea lions as appearing “demonic,” given their bizarre and unsettling actions.

The Cause: Toxic Algae and Domoic Acid Poisoning

The root cause of these strange behaviors is a neurotoxin known as domoic acid, produced by harmful algal blooms. This naturally occurring toxin is released by certain algae species that thrive in warm ocean waters. When sea lions and other marine animals, such as dolphins, ingest contaminated prey like sardines and anchovies, they can suffer from domoic acid poisoning.

The symptoms of domoic acid poisoning are severe and often include seizures, lethargy, and a peculiar “stargazing” posture, where the animals tilt their heads back, as though they are staring at the sky. However, perhaps the most alarming symptom is aggression, which has led to several unsettling incidents, including attacks on humans. A recent incident at Oxnard State Beach saw a surfer bitten by a disoriented sea lion, believed to be under the influence of the neurotoxin.

Unprecedented Aggression and Stranding Events

The aggression displayed by some affected sea lions is raising alarms. Experts warn that these animals, once gentle and social, can become unpredictable and dangerous when under the influence of domoic acid. Sea lions have been spotted acting disoriented, lunging at beachgoers, and even attacking people who unknowingly ventured too close. The erratic behavior has prompted California officials to issue warnings urging the public to avoid any interaction with sea lions showing unusual behavior, as these animals pose a potential risk to human safety.

The increase in strandings and reports of aggression has also overwhelmed marine mammal rescue centers. The Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro has reported treating over 140 affected sea lions, many of which had to be rescued after washing up on beaches in a lethargic or semi-conscious state. Dolphin strandings have also risen significantly, with many of these marine mammals displaying similar symptoms of poisoning.

Rising Concerns About Environmental Impact

The rising frequency of these toxic algal blooms has sparked fears about the long-term health of California’s marine ecosystem. Warmer ocean temperatures, a result of climate change, have contributed to more frequent algal blooms, which in turn are leading to more instances of domoic acid poisoning in marine life. As these toxic blooms continue to spread, the already fragile marine food web may be further disrupted, endangering both marine mammals and the species that depend on them.

Marine experts are now calling for increased research into the effects of climate change on the frequency of these toxic blooms and their impact on marine life. As the situation worsens, rescue organizations and researchers are stressing the importance of protecting both marine animals and human communities.

What You Can Do

California authorities are urging residents and tourists alike to exercise caution when near marine mammals. If you encounter a sea lion or other marine animal that is acting strangely, it is essential to maintain a safe distance and avoid interacting with them. Experts recommend reporting any stranded animals to local rescue organizations, which are better equipped to assess and care for them.

As California grapples with this unusual phenomenon, the threat of “demonic” sea lions is serving as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our environment and the challenges posed by climate change. The state’s residents are left hoping that science and conservation efforts will provide a solution before these dangerous marine mammals become a larger threat to public safety.

For more information, you can watch the ABC News report on the rising concerns over sea lions and their unusual behavior.