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Pescadero Today
By the People, for the People
Elephant Seal Flu Outbreak Halts Popular California Tours
Officials cancel guided tours at Año Nuevo State Park after several seal pups test positive for avian flu.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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A small number of elephant seal illnesses have been observed at Año Nuevo State Park on the California coast, prompting officials to temporarily halt guided tours to the massive seal colony. Researchers say seven seal pups have tested positive for an avian flu virus, and several more are showing signs of illness.
Why it matters
Año Nuevo State Park hosts one of the largest mainland breeding colonies of northern elephant seals on the West Coast, attracting thousands of visitors each year to view the seals. The temporary closure of the tours will impact the park's tourism and revenue, while also raising concerns about the spread of the avian flu virus among the vulnerable seal population.
The details
Park officials announced the temporary tour cancellations on Monday after the illnesses were detected among the seal pups. Researchers are working to determine the source and extent of the avian flu outbreak, which could pose a risk to the overall seal population if it continues to spread.
- On Monday, park officials announced the temporary halt of guided tours at Año Nuevo State Park.
The players
Año Nuevo State Park
A California state park that hosts one of the largest mainland breeding colonies of northern elephant seals on the West Coast, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
What’s next
Researchers are working to determine the source and extent of the avian flu outbreak among the seal pups, and officials will evaluate when it may be safe to resume guided tours at the park.
The takeaway
The temporary closure of the popular elephant seal tours at Año Nuevo State Park highlights the vulnerability of wildlife populations to emerging diseases and the need for careful monitoring and management to protect these natural resources.
