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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
Heidi Nikolai

Heidi Nikolai

Animal Care Coordinator

As an Animal Care Coordinator based at Ke Kai Ola, our hospital for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, Heidi leads coordination of Animal Care crews, including recruitment, training and communication. 

Heidi has a B.S. in Aeronautical Science and has previous experience working in large and small animal hospitals on the Big Island. She has volunteered in various roles at The Marine Mammal Center and Alaska SeaLife Center since 2015, and has been an employee at the Center since 2018. 

When not working, Heidi enjoys spending time at the beach with her family and two dogs.

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