Brown pelicans suffering from domoic acid toxicity \u2014 a harmful neurotoxin that affects their brain and nervous system \u2014 have inundated a Huntington Beach wildlife facility.<\/p>\n
The Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center is currently caring for more than 650 animals, including 50 sick pelicans, many of which need intensive treatment.<\/p>\n
Debbie McGuire, executive director, told LAist they haven\u2019t seen this many animal patients dealing with domoic acid toxicity in nearly 20 years.<\/p>\n
\u201c\u200aOur staff is very tired because they’re working overtime and extra hours. … We\u2019re just overwhelmed,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The center has taken in at least 125 pelicans over the past month, and some have been incredibly sick.<\/p>\n
They\u2019re being treated with IV fluids, blood tests and anti-seizure medication, if needed, but not all recover. Staffers are \u201cdoing as much as they can, and the animal still might pass away,\u201d McGuire said.<\/p>\n
Almost all the early pelican patients were adults, but now younger birds are also flooding Southern California facilities.<\/p>\n
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