Elephant seals on California's Central Coast are under threat from avian flu, with officials closely monitoring local wildlife. The disease has been detected in seven weaned elephant seal pups at Año Nuevo State Park in San Mateo County, marking the first time it has been found in marine mammals in California. The pups displayed respiratory and neurological symptoms, with no treatment available to save them. The outbreak has affected approximately 30 seals, and samples are being analyzed by various laboratories. Local organizations in San Luis Obispo County are aware of the situation and are communicating with counterparts in Santa Cruz to gather relevant information. Cal Poly professor Heather Liwanag, who has been monitoring seals at Piedras Blancas near San Simeon, believes the outbreak in San Mateo County is localized. However, her team is prepared to assist with testing asymptomatic seals on the Central Coast if requested by agencies. The Marine Mammal Center has temporarily suspended responses to elephant seals and Pacific harbor seals out of caution. As of February 26, no cases have been detected on the Central Coast, but officials remain vigilant.
