Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network (SBWCN) is currently caring for an increased number of seabirds showing signs of domoic acid poisoning, a naturally occurring toxin found in the ocean.

The nonprofit wildlife hospital, serving Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, offers the following information about what domoic acid is, how it impacts wildlife, and what people can do if they see an animal in distress.

Domoic acid is produced by certain species of algae during harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms can occur naturally and are influenced by a variety of environmental factors, including ocean temperature and nutrient levels.

When small fish and shellfish ingest the algae, the toxin can move up the food chain to affect marine animals like seabirds and sea lions.

Seabirds exposed to domoic acid may appear disoriented or lethargic, and in some cases may have difficulty standing, flying, or maintaining balance. Severely affected birds may have tremors, seizures, or other neurological abnormalities.

Treatment requires intensive care, including IV fluids to help flush the toxin from the body, anti-seizure medications, and tube-feeding until the birds are able to eat on their own.

While Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network provides care for affected seabirds, sea lions and other sea mammals experiencing similar symptoms are rescued and rehabilitated by Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute (CIMWI).

“Domoic acid can cause serious illness in wildlife,” said Dr. Cheryl Chooljian, director of Veterinary Medicine at SBWCN. “Our role is to respond with compassion and care, and to share information so that our community knows how to help.”

If you see a seabird that appears to be acting unusually, such as sitting in an unusual place, unable to stand, or seeming unaware of their surroundings, call the SBWCN HELPLine, 805-681-1080.

If you see a sea lion exhibiting similar signs, contact CIMWI, 805-567-1505.

SBWCN is working closely with partner organizations and agencies to track and respond to domoic acid cases in the region, but community members play an important role by reporting sightings and staying informed, the network said.

For more about SBWCN’s work or to support the care of seabirds affected by domoic acid, visit www.sbwcn.org.

SBWCN is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.