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California sea lion being treated for domoic acid poisoning
In the News

NBC Nightly News: Researchers Investigate Dozens of Sick Sea Lions Along California Coast

August 13, 2024
  • Domoic acid
  • Climate change
  • Population monitoring

Aired on NBC Nightly News: August 13, 2024

At the Marine Mammal Center, volunteers are responding to nearly 150 sick sea lions that have washed up on the California coast in recent weeks. The animals are showing signs of being poisoned by domoic acid, a neurotoxin from algae that gets into the fish that the sea lions eat. NBC News' Liz Kreutz rides along with the rescuers.

Meet Our Experts

Aliah Meza

Aliah Meza

Operations Manager, San Luis Obispo Operations
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Barbie Halaska

Barbie Halaska

Necropsy Laboratory & Large Whale Response Coordinator
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Learn More About Marine Mammal Conservation & Care

Learn More About Domoic Acid

Yes, I want to save a life!

Yes, I want to save a life!

You’ll be giving sick and injured animals the best possible care at the Center’s state-of-the-art hospital. With your gift today, you are giving a patient a second chance at life in the wild.

  • $35 You'll buy food for a hungry animal
  • $45 You'll provide life-saving medical care
  • $65 You'll make second chances possible

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domoic acid
climate change
population monitoring
Barbie Halaska
Aliah Meza
California Sea Lion