Nesting Gulls at La Jolla Need Your Help: Join Us in Protecting Them
Last week, we observed several Western gulls peacefully nesting at La Jolla Children’s Pool. Just days later, the beach reopened—and sadly, we’ve since witnessed repeated disturbances to these precious nesting gulls.
Nesting Western Gull, May 9 2025, at La Jolla by Azi S./ © Wildlife Jewels
Nesting Gulls at La Jolla Need Your Help: Join Us in Protecting Them
Last week during our Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla monitoring, we observed several Western gulls nesting on a peaceful stretch of beach at La Jolla Children’s Pool. They began nesting while the beach was closed (Dec 15–May 15) and didn’t know it would reopen—now their nests are exposed to beachgoers.
Just days later, the beach reopened—and sadly, we’ve since witnessed repeated disturbances to these precious nesting Gulls.
Adults and children have been unknowingly walking, running, and playing just steps away from the active nests—some even picking up items from the sand right next to them. The gulls are stressed, and their fragile nesting efforts are now at serious risk.
‼️Please be mindful: these birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to disturb or destroy active nests with eggs or chicks.
📍We need your help monitoring nesting gulls and other coastal wildlife. Join our Wildlife Jewels EYES Monitoring Group—link below to apply.
Let’s work together to protect the wildlife we all share this coast with.
How You Can Help:
Report Gulls: If you encounter a distressed Gull contact San Diego Humane Society or SeaWorld Rescue.
Keep your Distance: Maintain at least 12 feet distance from the gulls nest area and stay quiet around the nest.
Ensure Public Awareness: Help keep beachgoers and dogs away from the Gulls to minimize stress and potential harm until rescuers arrive.
To REPORT A VIOLATION or Harrassment of Wildife
1- Submit Report to the California Department of Fish & Wildlife CALTIP (Californians Turn In Poachers and Polluters)
2- Submit Report to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS).
Join the Wildlife Jewels EYES Collective to HELP US MONITOR GULLS AND OTHER PRECIOUS WILDLIFE.
"Every single wildife is precious. Every single wildlife counts. We must come together to protect and save our magnificent wildlife." ~ Azi Sharif, Executive Director at Wildlife Jewels
Nesting Western Gulls, May 9 2025, and May 17, 2025 at La Jolla
Photo: Pelican with injured foot (May 2025), Nesting. Western Gull (May 2025), Distressed Sea Lion Pup (June 2024), Seal Pup (May 2025) at La Jolla Azi S./ © Wildlife Jewels
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Entangled Sea Lion “Jasper“ at La Jolla Cove Urgently Needs Help
We first saw this precious sea lion whom we’ve named Jasper, on May 1st, and again on May 9th. Her condition is worsening as the net cuts deeper into her neck. She urgently needs to be rescued. If you spot her or any other entangled marine mammals, please report the sighting immediately to your local marine mammal rescue team.
Entangled Sea Lion at La Jolla Cove, May 9 2025, by Azi S./ © Wildlife Jewels
⚠️ Content Warning: Injured sea lion shown
During our EYES monitoring walk at La Jolla Cove, sadly we spotted a precious sea lion entangled in fishing gear.
We first saw this precious sea lion whom we’ve named Jasper, on May 1st, and again on May 9th. Her condition is worsening as the net cuts deeper into her neck. She urgently needs to be rescued!!
Sadly, she has not yet been rescued due to the challenges and limited accessibility of her location.
If you spot her or any other entangled marine mammals, please report the sighting immediately to your local licensed marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation center.
To learn how you can support the Wildlife Jewels EYES program in locating and reporting distressed wildlife, Click HERE.
📞 Marine Mammal Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325
📍 Orange County: Pacific Marine Mammal Center: (949) 494-3050
📍 Los Angeles County: Marine Mammal Care Center: (800)-39-WHALE
How You Can Help:
Report Distressed Sea Lions: If you encounter a sea lion showing signs of distress, contact the nearest marine mammal rescue center immediately.
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the sea lion and guard the animal until rescuers arrive.
Ensure Public Awareness: Help keep beachgoers and dogs away from the sea lion to minimize stress and potential harm until rescuers arrive.
⚠️ Content Warning: Injured sea lion shown
The following photos and videos shows an entangled Sea Lion with a visible neck wound, shared to raise awareness about her heartbreaking situation, the dangers of discarded fishing gear, and its devastating impact on coastal wildlife.
"Every single Sea Lion is precious. Every single Sea Lion counts. And every distressed Sea Lion deserves treatment, care and a chance to recover. We must come together to protect and save our magnificent Sea Lions." ~ Azi Sharif, Executive Director at Wildlife Jewels
Entangled Sea Lion at La Jolla Cove, May 1 and May 9 2025, Captured by Azi S./ © Wildlife Jewels
Entangled Sea Lion at La Jolla Cove, May 1 2025, Captured by Azi S./ © Wildlife Jewels
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
🌟 Introducing Wildlife Jewels EYES! 🌟
We’re excited to announce the launch of Wildlife Jewels EYES!
Starting in Newport Beach, Solana Beach, and La Jolla Cove, the Wildlife Jewels EYES™ Program is a proactive initiative that empowers the community to actively search for, spot, monitor, and report distressed coastal wildlife in need of help — while also tracking critical data to support wildlife rescue and protection efforts.
We’re excited to announce the launch of Wildlife Jewels EYES!
Starting in Newport Beach, Solana Beach, and La Jolla Cove, the Wildlife Jewels EYES™ Program is a proactive initiative that empowers the community to actively search for, spot, monitor, and report distressed coastal wildlife in need of help — while also tracking critical data to support wildlife rescue and protection efforts.
📣 Join the Wildlife Jewels EYES Collective
🦭 Become a Volunteer Monitor or Community Reporter
🌊 Join our Partnership Opportunities
🤝 Sponsor or Support the Cause
✨ Every wildlife matters — and every distressed wildlife deserves care. Join us in protecting our precious sea life!
Entangled Sea Lion at La Jolla Cove 16 November 2024
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Entangled Sea Lion at La Jolla Cove Urgently Needs Help
We spotted a precious sea lion entangled in fishing gear today just north of La Jolla Cove. If you see her, please report the sighting immediately to help ensure she receives the urgent care she needs.Every single wildlife is unique and precious, and deserves a chance to be rescued.
During our EYES monitoring walk at La Jolla Cove today, sadly we spotted a precious sea lion entangled in fishing gear. If you see her, please report the sighting immediately to help ensure she receives the urgent care she needs.Every single wildlife is unique and precious, and deserves a chance to be rescued.
To learn how you can support the Wildlife Jewels EYES program in locating and reporting distressed wildlife, Click HERE.
📞 Marine Mammal Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325
📍 Orange County: Pacific Marine Mammal Center: (949) 494-3050
📍 Los Angeles County: Marine Mammal Care Center: (800)-39-WHALE
How You Can Help:
Report Distressed Sea Lions: If you encounter a sea lion showing signs of distress, contact the nearest marine mammal rescue center immediately.
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the sea lion and guard the animal until rescuers arrive.
Ensure Public Awareness: Help keep beachgoers and dogs away from the sea lion to minimize stress and potential harm until rescuers arrive.
Every single Sea Lion is precious and every single Sea Lion counts. Join us in this critical mission to save our magnificent Sea Lions.
Entangled Sea Lion at La Jolla Cove 16 November 2024
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
California Brown Pelicans Sickened by Domoic Acid Recovering at WWCC
Our majestic California Brown Pelicans are in urgent need of help. Sickened by toxic algae, they are being found in alarming numbers. As of today, the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center in Orange County is caring for 75 Pelicans recovering from domoic acid poisoning.
A precious California Brown Pelican receiving care at the Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach. Photo "Courtesy of Newt Likier/Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center"
Pelicans in Crisis: Help Save Pelicans
Our majestic California Brown Pelicans are in urgent need of help, as domoic acid toxicity leaves them stranded and distressed in alarming numbers. As of today, the Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center in Orange County is caring for 75 Pelicans recovering from domoic acid poisoning.
The animal subjects captured in this footage are suspected of suffering from Domoic Acid Toxicity. "Courtesy of Newt Likier/Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center"
Ways you can help:
If you see a Pelican in distress, call for help immediately.
In Orange County, call Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center: (714) 374-5587
Visit Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center to learn more and discover how you can support their life-saving work.
Join Wildlife Jewels’ EYES Collective to help us find and report pelicans in need of rescue.
Help Us Save Pelicans
Wildlife Jewels® is seeking volunteers and community reporters to help monitor beaches and report distressed Pelicans. Learn how you can get involved and Join the Wildlife Jewels’ EYES Collective Program!
The animal subjects captured in this footage are suspected of suffering from Domoic Acid Toxicity. "Courtesy of Newt Likier/Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center"
Pelicans suffering from Domoic Acid Toxicity. "Captured by Azi Sharif/Wildlife Jewels"
“Every single Pelican is precious and every single Pelican counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our precious Pelicans. ”
Distressed Pelican "Captured by Azi Sharif/Wildlife Jewels"
California Brown Pelican and Cormorants at La Jolla Cove, "Captured by Azi Sharif/Wildlife Jewels"
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Malaia the Pelican’s Rescue at La Jolla Cove and Domoic Acid Crisis
During Tuesday’s Wildlife Jewels® EYES monitoring walk mat La Jolla Cove, sadly we spotted multiple pelicans showing signs of domoic acid poisoning. One, thankfully, was in an accessible spot on the beach.
A precious California Brown Pelican a La Jolla Cove, April 22, 2025.
During Tuesday’s Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla monitoring walk, sadly we spotted multiple pelicans showing signs of domoic acid poisoning. One, thankfully, was in an accessible spot on the beach.
We first noticed him from a distance—it was clear from his behavior something was wrong. We observed quietly for a few hours while calling for help. He was frightened by the crowd and slipped into the water, too weak to fly. We were so relieved when he made it back to the sand.
We stayed with him, watching and waiting, making sure he stayed safe until help arrived.
Thanks to the San Diego Humane Society, he was safely taken to Project Wildlife for care. 💚
Join the Wildlife Jewels’ EYES Collective to help us find and save more precious coastal wildlife—like Malaia the Pelican! Discover ways you can get involved!
Malaia the Pelican’s Rescue at La Jolla Cove and Domoic Acid Crisis
Pelicans in Crisis: Help Us Save Pelicans
“Every single Pelican is precious and every single Pelican counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our precious Pelicans. ”
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Updates
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
From Domoic Acid Poisoning to Recovery: A Brown Pelican’s Story of Hope
Sharing a precious California Brown Pelican who’s fortunate to have been rescued and is now on the road to recovery after surviving the devastating effects of domoic acid poisoning. She’s a glimmer of hope amidst the tragic domoic acid crisis impacting our seabirds and sea lions along the coast.
A precious California Brown Pelican receiving care at the Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach.
From Domoic Acid Poisoning to Recovery: A Brown Pelican’s Story of Hope
Meet a precious California Brown Pelican who’s fortunate to have been rescued and is now on the road to recovery after surviving the devastating effects of domoic acid poisoning. She represents a glimmer of hope amidst the tragic crisis affecting seabirds and marine life along the California coast.
Thanks to the incredible work of the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, she’s receiving the vital care she needs. 💚
Visit Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center to learn more and discover how you can support their life-saving work.
Join Wildlife Jewels’ EYES Collective to help us find and report pelicans in need of rescue.
Help Us Save Pelicans
Wildlife Jewels® is seeking volunteers and community reporters to help monitor beaches and report distressed Pelicans. Learn how you can get involved and Join the Wildlife Jewels’ EYES Collective Program!
Pelicans in Crisis: Help Us Save Pelicans
“Every single Pelican is precious and every single Pelican counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our precious Pelicans. ”
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Pelicans in Crisis: Help Us Save Pelicans
Our majestic California Brown Pelicans are facing a devastating crisis—domoic acid poisoning. One of the earliest signs is head swaying, a symptom. This video shows just a few of the many pelicans we observed suffering at La Jolla Cove on Thursday.
A precious California Brown Pelican distressed at La Jolla Cove, April 17, 2025.
Pelicans in Crisis: Help Us Save Pelicans
Our majestic California Brown Pelicans are facing a devastating crisis—domoic acid poisoning. One of the earliest signs is head swaying. This video shows just a few of the many Pelicans we observed suffering at La Jolla Cove on Thursday.
If you see a Pelican in distress, call for help immediately. With prompt care and treatment, they have a chance to survive and recover. We're seeking volunteers and community reporters to join our EYES program to help us identify and report distressed Pelicans along our coastline. Every Pelican is precious. Every moment matters. Early action can save lives.
📞 Seabird Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325 and San Diego Humane Society Project Wildlife: (619) 299-7012
📍 Orange County: Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center: (714) 374-5587
📍 Los Angeles County: California Wildlife Center: (310) 458-9453 and International Bird Rescue: (310) 514-2573
Help Us Save Pelicans
Wildlife Jewels® is seeking volunteers and community reporters to help monitor beaches and report distressed Pelicans. Learn how you can get involved and Join the Wildlife Jewels’ EYES Collective Program!
Pelicans in Crisis: Help Us Save Pelicans
“Every single Pelican is precious and every single Pelican counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our precious Pelicans. ”
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
A Spark of Hope Amid the Domoic Acid Crisis: Meet Amazonite the Pelican
Sea lions and seabirds along the California coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning—a devastating condition caused by harmful algal blooms. If treated early, survival is possible. But without timely intervention, domoic acid poisoning can lead to irreversible brain damage or even death. In May 2024, during the mass stranding of California Brown Pelicans, our team helped rescue one very special bird.
A precious California Brown Pelican stranded on the beach with signs of starvation and dehydration. May 3, 2024 Corona del Mar State Beach
A Spark of Hope Amid the Domoic Acid Crisis: Meet Amazonite the Pelican
Help Us Save Marine Mammals and Seabirds in Crisis
Sea lions and seabirds along the California coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning—a devastating condition caused by harmful algal blooms. If treated early, survival is possible. But without timely intervention, domoic acid poisoning can lead to irreversible brain damage or even death.
As this urgent crisis unfolds, we’re reminded of the critical need to act—and we’d like to share one rescue story that shows what’s possible when we do.
In May 2024, during the mass stranding of California Brown Pelicans, our team helped rescue one very special bird. Meet Amazonite the Pelican—named for his beauty and strength. We found him during our wildlife monitoring search at Corona del Mar State Beach, visibly weak and vulnerable.
With care and patience, we guided Amazonite away from crowds, traffic, and other hazards, standing by to ensure his safety until the Newport Beach Animal Control rescue team arrived. Thanks to quick action, Amazonite was safely transported to the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, where he received the urgent medical care he needed—and was later released back into the wild!
Every Wildlife Matters
Thank you to everyone who played a part in saving Amazonite. Your compassion, awareness, and support made a difference. Every single wild life matters—and each and every one of you has the power to help save a life.
See a Pelican or other Seabird in Distress?
If you see a pelican on the sand or in an unusual spot looking weak or disoriented, please don’t hesitate—call for help immediately. Your quick action can save a life!!!
📞 Seabird Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325 and San Diego Humane Society Project Wildlife: (619) 299-7012
📍 Orange County: Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center: (714) 374-5587
📍 Los Angeles County: California Wildlife Center: (310) 458-9453 and International Bird Rescue: (310) 514-2573
Help Us Save Wildlife
Wildlife Jewels® is currently seeking volunteers to help monitor beaches and report distressed seabirds and marine mammals. Learn how you can get involved and Join the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Collective!
“Every single Pelican is precious and every single Pelican counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our precious Pelicans. ”
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Help Us Save Marine Mammals and Seabirds in Crisis
Sea lions and seabirds along the coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning. If treated early, survival is possible. However, without timely care, domoic acid poisoning can lead to irreversible brain damage and death.
Sea Lions and Seabirds are in Crisis: Domoic Acid Poisoning
Help Us Save Marine Mammals and Seabirds in Crisis
Sea lions and seabirds along the coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning. If treated early, survival is possible. However, without timely care, domoic acid poisoning can lead to irreversible brain damage and death.
Join the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Group Wildlife Monitoring Team to assist in locating and reporting distressed sea lions and seabirds. Sign up to be part of our efforts to protect these incredible animals and contribute to their recovery.
Explore Wildlife Jewels Rescue Marine Mammal Resources
If you spot a distressed sea lion, pelican, cormorant, gull, or other seabird, please call for help immediately. Your quick action can save a life!!!
📞 Marine Mammal Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325
📍 Orange County: Pacific Marine Mammal Center: (949) 494-3050
📍 Los Angeles County: California Wildlife Center: (310) 458-9453 and Marine Mammal Care Center: (800)-39-WHALE
📞 Seabird Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325 and San Diego Humane Society Project Wildlife: (619) 299-7012
📍 Orange County: Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center: (714) 374-5587
📍 Los Angeles County: California Wildlife Center: (310) 458-9453 and International Bird Rescue: (310) 514-2573
🆘 What is Domoic Acid Poisoning?
This toxin, produced by harmful algal blooms, affects the nervous system and can cause:
⚠️ Stargazing (abnormal upward gaze)
⚠️ Disorientation & head weaving
⚠️ Mouth foaming & lethargy
⚠️ Erratic behavior & seizures
If you see a deceased Pelican or other Wildife you can help by completing the CDFW form through the link below:
Rescue of a California Sea Lion we spotted in Solana Beach poisoned by domoic acid in June 2023
Call to Action:
In the face of this crisis, time is of the essence. Every second counts when it comes to locating and aiding a distressed wildlife and preventing further harm.
As part of our Wildlife Jewels Rescue Collective Group, we are issuing an urgent call for volunteers to join our efforts in monitoring the beaches and help us locate and report affected sea lions. We are seeking volunteers to stay near the stranded sea lions to protect them from potential disturbances until help arrives.
Your involvement could make a lifesaving difference in the recovery of these majestic sea lions.
How You Can Help:
Please join us to help save sea lions. Whether you have experience in wildlife rescue or simply a passion for protecting our natural habitats, your assistance is invaluable. You’ll simply be walking along the beach while reporting any signs of sickened sea lions.
To help us locate and report distressed sea lions, please submit the form below, and we will provide you with further information and detailed instructions.
Every single Wildlife is precious and every single Wildlife counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our magnificent seabirds and marine life.
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!