MALIBU — An outbreak of domoic acid is sickening sea lions in the waters off Malibu, according to wildlife officials.

Workers at the California Wildlife Center responded to at least 14 calls for sea lions in distress over a four-day period, the center said in a Facebook post on Saturday.

“Though we have not confirmed the cause for these animals’ illness, their signs and the recent rains make the situation highly suspicious for domoic acid toxicity,” the post said. “Malibu residents, visitors, and other beachgoers are advised to keep their distance from animals on the beach and call or text our Marine team at 310-924-7256 for assistance with animals in distress.”

Domoic acid is an algal bloom resulting from a single-celled organism called Pseudo-nitzschia. There are benign and toxic strains which animals may be exposed to through ingestion of contaminated fish. In its toxic form, DA damages the brain and heart, even in low doses. Signs in marine mammals include seizures, a craning head motion known as “stargazing,” and highly lethargic or comatose states.

The public is advised to not interact directly with animals such as sea lions in distress as they may lunge and bite without warning.

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