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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
Jeff Boehm

Jeff Boehm, DVM, Dipl. ACAW

Chief External Relations Officer

I’m passionate about making a difference in environmental conservation, whether through the communities I work with, the organization I lead, or the policies and practices I influence.

Dr. Jeff Boehm traces his career path back to a volunteer position he held at The Marine Mammal Center as a young adult. He returned to the Center as Executive Director in 2008 and has since expanded the organization’s efforts to advance global ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, scientific research and education. As Chief External Relations Officer, Jeff plays a critical role in shaping the organization's brand, partnerships and revenue generation.

Previously, Jeff served as the Senior Vice President of Animal Health and Conservation Science at the John G. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, where he worked for 16 years. There, he oversaw the veterinary medical program and led and coordinated the aquarium’s conservation science division, including conservation partnerships, in-house programs, and educational and advocacy programs and partnerships. 

Following decades of work, Jeff was awarded the 2021 AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) Animal Welfare Award, an honor that recognizes his achievement in advancing the welfare of animals and the survival of critically endangered species via leadership, public service, education, research and advocacy.

Jeff received his bachelor’s degree from the University of California at San Diego and his veterinary medical degree from the University of California at Davis. He is a diplomate and founding member of the American College of Animal Welfare and served as its president in 2019. 

Residing in Mill Valley, California, Jeff lives with his partner, two children and an ever-changing menagerie of animals.


Areas of Expertise

  • Wildlife Health
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Fundraising
  • Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership



Talk to Our Experts

Our experts are available to comment on a variety of marine mammal and ocean health issues. Please contact our PR team at media@tmmc.org to schedule an interview. 

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