A number of sea lions are sick with a highly contagious bacterial infection, that affects their kidneys (and can be fatal, if not treated). The Leptospirosis bacteria can infect different species, including humans and dogs IF they have contact with infected urine, water, or soil. People are encouraged to keep at least 50 feet away from sick marine mammals, and to make a report about the animals to the Marine Mammal Center. The Center’s number is (415) 289-SEAL.
Reportedly, sea lions suffering from this infection often fold their flippers over their abdomens, and they drink fresh water (which they normally don’t need to do).
