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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
Dave Chan

Dave Chan

Associate Director, Life Support Systems & Facilities

Dave is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Life Support Systems & Facilities department. After receiving a bachelor's degree in Aquatic Biology from UC Santa Barbara in 1993, Dave started his career in the public aquarium industry and subsequently became focused on education, conservation, science literacy and communication. 

During his time at the Pennington Science Center, Dave wore many hats: procuring and caring for live collections, maintaining the facilities, grant writing, managing donor relations, developing and administering educational programs, and implementing new initiatives related to conservation, science communication and exploration. 

Outside of work, Dave enjoys the outdoors by scuba diving, fishing, hiking, mountain biking and riding his vintage motorcycle.