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Avian Influenza Detected at Año Nuevo State Park

A small number of young northern elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park recently tested positive for H5N1, also known as bird flu. This is the first detection of H5N1 in California’s marine mammal population.

The risk of H5N1 to the public remains very low. We’re sharing guidance on how to protect yourself, your pets and marine mammals – and how you can help.

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Elephant seal
a dead gray whale on the shore
In the News

Los Angeles Times: First Dead Whale of 2023 Washes Up on California Beach

April 3, 2023
  • Species conservation
  • Pathology

First dead gray whale of 2023 washes up on California beach; scientists concerned about trend

Published in the Los Angeles Times: April 3, 2023

A 35-foot gray whale washed up on the shore of a Bay Area beach late last month — the first such fatality in the region this year — adding to the concern scientists have over the health of the species.

The whale likely died of injuries after crashing into a boat, according to scientists with The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, Calif., who conducted a necropsy last month.

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