Sick Sea Lion Rescued From Bike Lane Along Busy California Road

A sick sea lion was recently rescued from a bike line on a busy California road, as harmful algal blooms continue sickening sea life along the state’s coast.

The Carlsbad Police Department said officers recently responded to an “unusual late night call” for a sea lion “lounging” in the bike lane on Carlsbad Boulevard in Carlsbad, a coastal city about halfway between San Diego and Laguna Beach.

“While were not marine experts, we did what we could — kept it safe from traffic until the real pros from SeaWorlds Rescue Team arrived to take over,” police said. A photo shared by the police department shows an officer standing guard over the sick sea lion, which was dangerously close to traffic.

SeaWorld’s Rescue Team determined the sea lion appeared to be suffering from domoic acid poisoning, which is caused by harmful algal blooms. The sea lion is now receiving “professional care and treatment,” police said.

Police are asking any residents who see marine mammal in distress to contact SeaWorld Rescue at 1-800-541-SEAL.