Overview

• Phoebe Beltran was attacked by a sea lion during a junior lifeguard swim test on March 30, leaving her with multiple bites and scratches but no severe injuries.
• The attack occurred near Ocean Boulevard and Cherry Avenue in Long Beach, about 25 yards from shore, and prompted the cancellation of the tryouts.
• Experts attribute the sea lion's aggression to domoic acid poisoning caused by toxic algal blooms, which have been increasingly affecting marine mammals along the Southern California coast.
• This is the fourth consecutive year of toxic algae events in the region, fueled by climate change and pollution, including warming ocean temperatures and nitrate runoff.
• Authorities are urging the public to avoid contact with sick or distressed marine animals as the algal bloom continues to pose risks to both humans and wildlife.