Mysterious Mass Stranding Of Baby Sea Lions

[Still Waters]

It began in January. At first, there were only a few. But as the weeks went on, more sea lion pups washed ashore. The dehydrated, emaciated pups showed up on Southern California’s beaches, tucked under trucks and lifeguard towers. One was found huddled in a flower pot.

In late January, scientists surveying Channel Island sea lion rookeries reported something worrying: Pups out there were in bad shape. By early February, regional marine mammal rescue centers were concerned.

Now, hundreds of these little animals have been admitted to rescue centers between Santa Barbara and San Diego. For a non-El Niño year, the numbers are much too high, too early. Something is going badly wrong offshore, and no one knows what it is yet.

http://www.wired.com...-pup-stranding/

[Mistydawn]

It has to be man-made pollution.

[Ashotep]

Poor little things glad they are being rescued and taken care of. It looks like its a lack of food problem because it seems to be also effecting the pelicans. Mom stays away too long looking for food and the baby thinks she's not coming back then takes off on its on. With all the premature births hope they can save all of these.