"The massive seals, which can reach lengths of over 15 feet and weigh over 8,000 pounds, are also the subjects of a decadeslong research project by UCSC scientists. For the past 60 years, researchers have collected data on the seals, including their population dynamics, geographic distribution and feeding habits."
"The UCSC team worked with UC Davis scientists to collect and test samples from the sick and dead pups. The results confirmed that at least seven weaned pups were infected with influenza A, subtype H5N 1 - more commonly known as avian influenza or bird flu."
"This is the first known outbreak of bird flu in this population of northern elephant seals, and the first case of a marine mammal contracting the virus in California."
Scientists from UC Santa Cruz's Beltran and Costa labs conduct a 60-year research project monitoring elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park during their December-March breeding season. The seals, which can exceed 15 feet in length and weigh over 8,000 pounds, are studied for population dynamics, geographic distribution, and feeding habits. When researchers observed dead pups and others displaying weakness and tremors, they collected and tested samples in collaboration with UC Davis scientists. Testing confirmed at least seven weaned pups were infected with avian influenza A subtype H5N1. This marks the first known bird flu outbreak in this northern elephant seal population and the first case of a marine mammal contracting the virus in California. Additional samples from 60 more seals are undergoing testing.
#avian-influenza-h5n1 #elephant-seals #marine-mammal-disease #wildlife-research #ano-nuevo-state-park
Read at The Mercury News
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