A rare and deadly strain of bird flu has struck one of California’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
Officials have temporarily closed seal-viewing areas at Año Nuevo State Park after more than two dozen northern elephant seal pups died from highly pathogenic avian influenza, known as H5N1.
The park’s colony swells to roughly 5,000 seals during breeding season, which runs from mid-December through March. Researchers say about 30 seals, mostly recently weaned pups, have died so far. The outbreak marks the first confirmed cases of this strain in marine mammals in California.
Scientists from University of California, Santa Cruz and University of California, Davis began intensified monitoring after detecting the virus last week. The Año Nuevo colony is one of the most studied elephant seal populations in the world, with decades of tracking data that allows researchers to closely monitor survival and health trends.
While the current number of deaths remains relatively limited, experts say it is too early to determine whether cases will increase or spread beyond the region. It is also unclear how the seals contracted the virus or why weaned pups appear especially vulnerable.
More than 400 guided tours have been canceled through the end of March, impacting thousands of visitors and dozens of school groups. The park itself remains open with restrictions as researchers continue monitoring efforts along the coast.
Wildlife officials say the closures are precautionary, giving the seals space while scientists track the outbreak’s trajectory.
Thanks to Active NorCal
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