Bird flu detected in Año Nuevo elephant seals, jury reaches verdict in Point Lobos injury lawsuit

KAZU | By Erin Malsbury

Published February 27, 2026 at 2:00 AM PST

photo shows a close-up of a young elephant seal's face at Año Nuevo State Park — A young elephant seal at Año Nuevo State Park three weeks before the outbreak. The avian influenza was first detected in seven young elephant seals, known as "weaners."

In today's newscast, researchers confirm an outbreak of bird flu in northern elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park. Approximately 30 seals have been affected so far. To report a sick or injured seal, call the Marine Mammal Center hotline.

Plus, a Monterey County jury awards $18.9 million to a woman hit by a docent's car at crosswalk at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

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Erin Malsbury

Erin is an award-winning journalist and photographer. She's written for local and national outlets, including the Smithsonian and Science Magazine. She has a master's degree in science communication from the University of California, Santa Cruz.

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