Spike in Leptospirosis Cases Among California Sea Lions Alarms Marine Mammal Center

Sea lion with leptospirosis. [Photos courtesy of Northcoast Marine Mammal Center]

Karen Helms, the Executive Director of the Northcoast Marine Mammal Center, expressed her concerns, saying, “We are seeing an unusually high number of sea lions with leptospirosis. Every couple of years, we have an upswing in cases, but we don’t usually see it this late in the season. Normally, we have one or two animals in our center. Right now, we have nine.”

Helms emphasized the importance of public awareness and safety, stating, “Give sea lions a wide berth. Leptospirosis is contagious to both people and pets. If a dog walks across an area where the sick animal urinated, then the dog has it on its paws, and then the dog licks its paws, and the next thing you know, the dog has leptospirosis.”

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that primarily targets the kidneys and can have devastating consequences for marine creatures (and others). To combat this outbreak, the center has a comprehensive treatment plan involving two rounds of antibiotics, gastroprotectants to safeguard the stomach against ulcers, and extensive hydration. This hydration regimen includes tube feeding of electrolytes, subcutaneous fluid delivery, and ensuring access to fresh drinking water at all times.

In light of the outbreak, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, which stipulates guidelines for maintaining a safe distance from marine mammals, is important not just for marine creatures but for humans and their pets. According to the act, individuals should remain at least 50 yards away from dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions.

Karen Helms advised that if the animal responds by something like lifting their head when a person passes, “they are too close.”

Helms also explained that as hard as the Center tries “we are not always able to bring in every animal that is sick on the beach.” She told us that sick adult male sea lions can weigh between 600 to 800 pounds.  “No one has the equipment required to deal with that size,” she said. “It is just not possible, nor is it safe.”

In addition, Helms urged the public to use their discretion when observing marine mammals on the beach. “Just because an animal is resting on the beach doesn’t mean they are sick or ill or need our help,” she cautioned. However, if a marine mammal appears lethargic, she advised, “Call the Center. Take a picture and send it via text. Give a really good description of distinctive landmarks.” Helms also recommended providing GPS coordinates to pinpoint the animal’s location accurately, noting that vague landmarks can be unhelpful in locating distressed animals.

In the midst of this leptospirosis outbreak, the Northcoast Marine Mammal Center remains committed to its mission of rescuing and rehabilitating marine mammals while actively promoting public education and safety. If you spot a marine mammal in distress, please contact the Center at (707) 951-4722, take a photo, and send it to the staff. You can also use Google Maps to figure out your GPS coordinates.

If anyone would like to become a volunteer, email the Center at [email protected].

Donations can be made here.