Sea lions may be cute, but experts warn the public to resist the urge to pet them if you see one on the beach this summer.

Experts are warning the public about a rise in beached sea lions, many of which are suffering from domoic acid poisoning.

According to Sam Dover, the founder and executive director of the Channel Island Marine and Wildlife Institute, the issue is caused by algae that produce the neurotoxin. The algae are then eaten by fish and sea life that sea lions and other mammals eat.

The algae are more common during a period that experts call a “red tide.”

“Unfortunately, this is the third time in two years we’ve had this and so it used to be once every other two years, every three years, and now it’s literally almost every six months,” Dover told Noozhawk. “So, it’s become a huge problem, and really there’s not much we can do about it.”

As of now, the CIMWI is receiving more than 100 reports a day of sea lions being stranded at the beach. The institute covers 155 miles of coastline with 106 beaches.

The Vandenberg Space Force Base has also seen an uptick in beached sea lions and said staff are monitoring them when they wash up.

Dover explained that the poison can be fatal to sea lions depending on how much they consume, and it can still cause illness at lower dosages.

Signs of domoic acid poisoning include staring into space, disorientation, head weaving, mouth foaming, lethargy, erratic behavior, unresponsiveness, involuntary muscle spasms, and seizures.

At lower levels, the animal may be able to clear the poison on its own with time and fluids. They will then return to the ocean after about 24-72 hours, Dover said.

How to Report Sick Sea Lions

The most important thing community members can do if they encounter a sea lion on the beach is to not approach it, especially if they are with dogs or children, Dover said.

“These animals are essentially out of touch with reality. They’re in the middle of a neurological event. They don’t know what’s going on. If you approach that animal they can really turn on (you), lash out, and bite you or bite your pet or your kids,” Dover said.

Additionally, the public should avoid touching, feeding, harassing, covering, pouring water on sea lions. This includes coaxing the lion out or into the ocean.

CIMWI says to observe the animal from a distance of 50 feet, about the length of a school bus. Document the animal’s characteristics and condition.

Next, try to determine the exact location of the sea lion and try to note any landmarks that can help CIMWI staff find it.

When they respond, they will assess the condition and if it’s serious, take the animal to the CIMWI rehabilitation center for treatment.

Finally, the public can call the CIMWI Rescue hotline at 805.567.1505. Be prepared to provide a name, phone number, specific information about the animal, and its location.

As Santa Barbara prepares for its annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta and sees additional tourists, Dover stressed the need for the public to avoid marine life.

“Unfortunately, these animals are showing up on populated beaches especially right now with Fiesta. Anytime when you see an animal whether it’s healthy or you’re concerned, definitely don’t touch it. Stay back and watch it,” Dower said.

 “Sometimes it’s perfectly normal behavior and other times it’s an animal in distress. If it is in distress, don’t hesitate to call us.”

If you see a sea lion stranded on the beach, you can call the Channel Wildlife Marine and Wildlife Institute rescue hotline at 805.567.1505. For sea lions spotted near the Vandenberg base, call 805.606.3911.