Bird Flu Outbreak Among California Elephant Seals Exposes Gaps in Wildlife Disease Preparedness

California is facing a troubling new chapter in wildlife health as seven elephant seal pups at Año Nuevo State Park have tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1. This marks the first known outbreak among marine mammals in the state, prompting officials to cancel popular seal-watching tours amid concerns over disease transmission.When Wildlife Health Becomes National SecurityThis outbreak is not just a local ecological concern; it represents a significant warning sign for American public health and national security. The relentless spread of bird flu since 2020 has devastated domestic poultry industries and wildlife worldwide. Now, with seals—a...