"Unprecedented Bird Flu Outbreak Ravages Seal Colonies, Baffling Scientists"

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is causing widespread deaths of seals and sea lions in regions from New England to Chile, with over 20,000 sea lions and thousands of elephant seals affected in South America. The virus, which has also been detected in mainland Antarctica, is believed to have spread to marine mammals through contact with infected seabirds. Scientists are concerned about the potential ecological crisis and the virus's impact on wildlife populations. There are also worries about the virus mutating and spreading to other species, including humans. Some scientists and environmental advocates suggest a possible link between the outbreaks and climate change, while efforts to vaccinate poultry and avoid contact with potentially infected animals are being emphasized.