Sick sea lions, which have been affected by the toxin domoic acid, have been attacking beachgoers in Southern California, causing widespread concern. The most recent case was the attack on surfer Rj LaMendola, who was attacked and dragged by a sea lion while in the water.
"It seemed possessed, it was wild, almost demonic," LaMendola wrote in a Facebook post.
The BBC reports that this happened while the animal was suffering from domoic acid toxicosis, a neurological symptom caused by a harmful algal bloom.
Also, another incident occurred with 15-year-old Phoebe Beltran, who was bitten by a sea lion during a swimming test.
"I was so scared, so shocked, but I still felt the immense pain in my arms, rest," the teenager told local American media.
These animals, affected by the toxin domoic acid that accumulates in fish and is consumed in large quantities by sea lions, can exhibit aggressive and unpredictable behavior. Experts say this is a consequence of the toxin causing aggression and disorientation.
The number of sick animals has increased significantly this year, overwhelming the Marine Mammal Care Center, which has treated more than 190 sea lions since February.
For the safety of beachgoers, authorities ask that they stay away from sick animals and not interfere, as they can be unpredictable and dangerous.
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