Drooid Logo
Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

First H5N1 Cases Found in California Elephant Seals

2/26/2026

49 10 Full Breakdown

1 of 1

Story summary
  • Researchers confirmed the first cases of H5N1 bird flu in northern elephant seals at California's Año Nuevo State Park.
  • The outbreak follows widespread die-offs of southern elephant seals in South America, where tens of thousands of animals have died.
  • Since the outbreak began, 30 seals have died.
  • The virus has been detected in seven weaned pups.
  • Officials closed the viewing area to monitor the situation.