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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
two California sea lions are released in front of a crowd of people
In the News

NPR Morning Edition: Hundreds of Seals and Sea Lions Are Treated Each Year at The Marine Mammal Center

August 18, 2023
  • Domoic acid

Heard on NPR's Morning Edition: August 18, 2023

About two miles from the beach in Bodega Bay, California, there's a small island where sea lions stop to rest. Despite the distance, I can hear the animals barking faintly.

Looking through a pair of binoculars – I pick out wiggling, cigar-shaped smudges along the lower parts of Bodega Rock.

Dozens and dozens of sea lions – all different shades of brown, tan and beige.

What could all that barking mean?

Watch California sea lions Quly and Togozees return to their ocean home

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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
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