Marine rescue centers across Southern California are facing an unprecedented challenge as hundreds of dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds fall victim to a devastating toxic algae bloom. The crisis has rescue teams racing to respond to over 100 distress calls daily from Ventura to Orange County.
"This is worse than 2023," says John Warner, CEO of the Marine Mammal Center Los Angeles. "Our vets are out there every morning euthanizing dolphins. We've never experienced that."
The animals are suffering seizures after consuming fish and shellfish poisoned by domoic acid, a neurotoxin produced by marine plankton. Many affected dolphins are beaching themselves seeking safety, but rescue workers warn that pushing them back into the water - a common public response - can be fatal.
By early this week, over 50 dolphins had died in Los Angeles County alone. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach reports caring for 45 animals, mostly pregnant female sea lions.
"This morning, we had three calls within 30 minutes of daylight breaking," says Glenn Gray, CEO of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. "That's the magnitude of it."
Rescue centers, traditionally dependent on private donations, are now urgently seeking government assistance to handle the crisis. Several beach cities including Long Beach and Redondo Beach have provided funding, but centers say more support is needed as these mass strandings become more frequent.
The situation is particularly challenging during spring break season, with unfamiliar tourists often approaching sick animals for photos. Lifeguards are working to protect both the public and stranded marine life while waiting for rescue teams.
"The most humane thing to do is to let it play its course and get the professional out there," advises Dr. Alissa Deming, chief veterinarian at Pacific Marine Mammal Center.
Researchers believe the bloom originated from deep ocean upwellings in February but cannot predict how long it will last. The public is urged to maintain distance from stranded animals and immediately contact local rescue centers or lifeguards if they encounter affected marine life.