Bird Flu Detected in California Elephant Seals at Año Nuevo State Park
Seven baby elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park in California have tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, marking the first confirmed cases in marine mammals in the state. The outbreak has prompted the temporary closure of public viewing areas at the park to protect both the seals and the public.
First Cases in California Marine Mammals
Researchers from the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), and the University of California, Santa Cruz (UC Santa Cruz) confirmed the cases on Wednesday, February 26, 2026. The virus was detected in weaned northern elephant seal pups. “This is exceptionally rapid detection of an outbreak in free-ranging marine mammals,” said Christine Johnson, director of the Institute for Pandemic Insights at UC Davis’ Weill School of Veterinary Medicine [1].
Global Spread and Previous Outbreaks
The global bird flu outbreak, which began in 2020, has had devastating effects on bird populations worldwide and has increasingly been detected in various wildlife species. Prior to the California cases, the virus caused significant mortality in southern elephant seals in Argentina in 2023 and in seals in New England. Thousands of sea lions have also died from the virus in Chile and Peru [4].
Symptoms and Monitoring at Año Nuevo
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz first observed seals exhibiting “abnormal respiratory and neurological signs, including weakness and tremors” between February 19 and 20 [1]. Samples were collected from both sick and deceased seals and sent to the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System for testing. Results are still pending on samples from another 30 specimens [1].
Park Closure and Public Safety
As a precautionary measure, Año Nuevo State Park has temporarily closed public access to the elephant seal viewing areas. This includes the cancellation of remaining tours for the current breeding season. “We are definitely not panicking about human exposure at this time,” stated Christine Johnson, “rather we are seeking to ensure the health of seals and people in general” [1]. Authorities advise the public to avoid approaching seals and to keep pets away from these animals [4].
Ongoing Research and Collaboration
Researchers from UC Davis and UC Santa Cruz are collaborating with state and federal wildlife managers, as well as The West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network, to monitor the situation and track the spread of the virus. The rapid detection of the outbreak is attributed to proactive surveillance efforts [1].
About Año Nuevo State Park
Año Nuevo State Park, located approximately 90 minutes south of San Francisco, is a significant breeding ground for northern elephant seals. Each winter, thousands of seals gather there to mate and give birth [2]. The park typically offers public viewing opportunities and volunteer-led walks through the seal colonies.
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