The Wire

A parasite known as hookworm has long affected Australian sea lions. The deadly parasite has been seen in 100% of sea lion pups and has a mortality rate of up to 40%.  Dr Rachael Gray senior lecturer of Veterinary Pathology from the University of Sydney has a treatment currently under trial at Kangaroo Island.

This treatment is being tested on various sea lion pups across two breeding seasons. They will be monitored for 18 months to see the pups growth and if their health is improved by the treatment. Hopefully this means a brighter future for our sea lions and a much needed increase in their population.