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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
threatened

Trumpet

Southern Sea Otter
Enhydra lutris

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This patient is a southern sea otter, a threatened species. Because sea otters are very dexterous and curious, we retrofitted several pool areas at our hospital to provide a safe space for juvenile and adult sea otters to receive life-saving care.

Many sea otters strand suffering from domoic acid toxicosis, toxoplasmosis, injury and other ailments.




photo © The Marine Mammal Center / USFWS permit MA101713-1 

Rescue Location
Pismo State Beach - North Beach Campground - Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo
Admitted
03/02/2026
Status
Deceased
Deceased Date
03/02/2026

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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