Pacific Marine Mammal Center Seeks Public's Help During Sea Lion Stranding Crisis

LAGUNA BEACH (CBSLA.com) — The Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMCC) sought the public's help Friday during a massive influx of sea lion rescues in coastal communities.

Sea lions in California can strand themselves for a number of different reasons such as injuries, ocean conditions, weather and illnesses.

Other stranding factors have been prompted by the lack of availability of prey, infectious disease outbreaks and harmful algae blooms, officials said.

Authorities explained more than 1,900 stranded sea lions were reported in California since January, which is five times higher than the historical average.

So far this month, the PMMC has nearly reached their maximum capacity to hold and care for sea lions at the facility, according to PMMC Director of Development Mary Beth Steen.

Staff members urged the public to follow these guidelines to help ensure the safety of stranded sea animals if located:

• Do not attempt to pick up, touch, feed or pour water on the animals.
• Be cautious that the animals can become stressed by human presence, and have the potential to bite you.
• Do not report animals that are found in jetties, buoys and rocky areas like North Crescent Bay. PMMC staff members are restricted from performing rescues in "natural hall out areas."
• Keep distance from the animals, and advise others to do the same. This will give the best chance of survival for the sea animals.

Steen explained PMMC is the only non-profit organization that serves beaches stretching from San Clemente to Seal Beach in Orange County.

Staff members are licensed to rehabilitate and rescue stranded animals, but they rely on donations to help pay for medicine, food, medical staff time and rescue transportation.

To make a donation to help pay for needed supplies at PMMC, click here.

Officials urged the public to describe stranded sea animals in as much detail as possible to staff members. PMMC can be reached at (949) 494-3050.