In late 2023, a bird flu outbreak severely impacted the southern elephant seal colony in Argentina, resulting in the death of over 17,000 seal pups. Experts predict it could take decades for the population to recover. Now, there's growing concern that northern elephant seals along the Pacific Coast might face similar fate, with a team of experts monitoring their health. Factors like low genetic diversity, environmental threats, and close contact during breeding season heighten the risk of disease spread, necessitating proactive measures to protect this vulnerable population.
The recent outbreak of bird flu has decimated the southern elephant seal population in Argentina, raising alarms for the vulnerable northern elephant seals along the Pacific Coast.
Experts warn that disease could severely threaten the recovery of the northern elephant seal population, particularly due to their low genetic diversity and various environmental threats.
Ecologists are actively monitoring the northern elephant seals and conducting nasal swab tests to track illness, highlighting the preparedness required against potential outbreaks.
Despite past recoveries, the northern elephant seals now face the dual threats of climate change and disease, exemplified by the recent devastating impact of avian influenza on southern counterparts.
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