𝗧𝗢𝗫𝗜𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗖𝗨𝗘: Sick Sea Lion Found Clinging to Rocks in Marina del Rey Rescue Drama

MARINA DEL REY — April 23, 2025 — A distressed juvenile sea lion was rescued from the rocks at the Marina del Rey jetty on Wednesday, marking another urgent response in an escalating marine wildlife crisis linked to toxic algae blooms spreading along the Southern California coast.

The young sea lion was observed exhibiting clear signs of neurological distress, prompting an emergency response from Los Angeles County Beaches and Harbors workers, who monitored the animal while awaiting professional rescue. Responders from the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) arrived shortly after, safely securing the animal and transporting it to their San Pedro-based facility for treatment and rehabilitation.

Jules, a responder with MMCC, confirmed that this rescue is part of a wider outbreak impacting marine species throughout the region. “We’re responding to the harmful algal bloom that’s affecting a lot of Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California right now,” she said. “Animals like this out here are being affected by toxic algae.”

The condition, known as domoic acid toxicosis, is caused by harmful algal blooms fueled by the microscopic algae Pseudo-nitzschia australis. This algae releases a neurotoxin that accumulates in bait fish like sardines and anchovies—a primary food source for sea lions. When ingested in large quantities, domoic acid can affect the brain and heart, often resulting in seizures, confusion, and in severe cases, heart failure.

“It works its way up from plankton, into the fish, and then into the sea lions,” Jules explained. “It can affect their heart and brain, leading to all kinds of neurological problems.”

Though there is no direct cure for domoic acid poisoning, MMCC veterinarians administer hydration therapy to flush the toxin from the animals’ systems, along with anti-seizure medication and a diet of domoic acid-free fish. The center’s veterinary team is also actively researching treatments to reduce inflammation and limit long-term brain damage. Recovery timelines vary, but early intervention remains the key to survival and eventual release back into the wild.

The sea lion rescued from Marina del Rey joins a growing number of animals affected by the ongoing bloom. MMCC and other rescue agencies have been inundated with calls about stranded sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds across Los Angeles County. “We’re overwhelmed,” Jules added. “We’re getting hundreds of calls. So many animals are washing up on the beach. We appreciate everyone’s support.”

Authorities are urging the public to stay at least 50 feet away from any stranded or sick marine mammals and to report sightings to MMCC’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-39-WHALE. Beachgoers are also advised to keep dogs leashed and inform lifeguards of any wildlife emergencies.

As toxic algae continues to spread along the coast, the situation underscores the environmental challenges facing California’s marine ecosystem. With harmful blooms becoming more frequent, centers like MMCC play a vital role in responding to the crisis. Since its founding in 1992, MMCC has treated over 8,000 marine mammals, making it one of the busiest rehabilitation facilities in the nation.

The Marina del Rey rescue serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for public awareness, scientific research, and sustained community support in protecting the region’s vulnerable coastal wildlife.

Contact:
Marine Mammal Care Center
📞 1-800-39-WHALE
🌐 marinemammalcare.org