So far this year, over 2000 sea lion pups that have washed ashore. There are a couple of reasons as to why. According to scientists, the water is warmer, and there is less food, so therefore the Mother's leave their babies longer in search of food, and they cannot survive or fend for themselves. These babies are washing ashore in record numbers.
"Scientists believe warmer coastal waters force the prey of sea lions — squid and sardines, for example — deeper beneath the ocean’s surface. Then nursing sea lion mothers must look further afield for food, leaving their pups for longer than normal. Deprived of sustenance and weakened, the pups limply wash ashore." (source Washington Post).
Another reasons is that the area has been overfished for sardines, and authorities are considering imposing a ban on fishing for the sardines. The sardine population has declined by 90% since 2007.
Why not consider helping these sea lions, and donations can be made to the Marine Mammal Center and they also have a wish list of items that they need in order to help to take care of these sea lions. Some of the items they need include pedialyte (unflavored), Dawn detergent, trash bags, paper towels, sponges, gas cards. For more information on their wish list, please view their website.
If you encounter a sea lion or sea lion pup on the beach, please notify the authorities or a local lifeguard. They are sick and malnourished. Please leave them alone, do not touch them, poke, pour water on or try to put back in the water. And if you see someone trying to touch one, please inform authorities
Pease consider donating to help these animals, or donate some items for their wish list.
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