Sea lions in California attacked people visiting the beach. It was revealed that the sea lions got sick due to a neurological condition caused by harmful algae bloom. The attacked individuals described the animals as “wild, almost devilish,” stating, “They looked possessed.”

Off the coast of Southern California, sea lions attacked beach visitors. Surfer Rj LaMendola shared his experience on social media. LaMendola, in a post on Facebook, mentioned that the animal involved in the incident just north of Los Angeles was “wild, almost devilish,” saying, “They looked possessed.”

ALGAE BLOOM AFFECTS BRAINS
The surfer later learned that the animal suffered from domoic acid toxicity – a neurological condition caused by harmful algae bloom. The aggressive animal is one of many sick animals recently seen along the California coast – suffering from symptoms like seizures or severe lethargy. This particular algae bloom has occurred in California for four consecutive years, raising concerns that it could become an annual event.

“FELT LIKE I WAS BEING HUNTED”
The algae bloom started earlier than usual this year and spread far off the coastline of Southern California. LaMendola said, “I felt like I was being hunted.” 15-year-old Phoebe Beltran, while taking lifeguard classes in Long Beach, was repeatedly bitten by a sea lion. The young girl told local U.S. media, “I was very scared, shocked, but still felt that intense pain repeatedly in my arms.”

INCREASING NUMBER OF SICK ANIMALS
Two consecutive attacks gained widespread coverage in the world press. Among those who consider California and its iconic beaches as their homes, it caused some concern. Although attacks are rare, experts say the number of animals affected by toxic algae blooms seems to be increasing. According to experts, these animals carry out their attacks while they are having seizures. As a result, their senses are not fully functional as usual and they act out of fear.

HOW DOES THE DISEASE SPREAD?
Domoic acid accumulates in small fish like sardines and anchovies, which are consumed in large quantities by marine predators such as dolphins, seals, and sea lions, causing them to get sick. Exposure to acids in sea lions is said to lead to serious neurological problems such as seizures, disorientation, and a behavior known as “head-weaving.” Some animals may remain lethargic and in a comatose state, while others may become aggressive.