Cronutt, an adolescent sea lion from Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in California, is one of the first animals in the world to receive brain surgery to treat his climate change-induced epilepsy. As temperatures rise and oceans warm, algae blooms have increased, resulting in the release of harmful toxins, particularly domoic acid, into the waters. Cronutt’s seizures developed after ingesting sardines, anchovies, and shellfish laden with these toxins, as these organisms are the typical prey of a sea lion. All over the world, pollution and global warming harm animals and ruin their habitats—issues that a growing number of sea animals are experiencing.
In early September of 2020, Cronutt, previously good-natured, became withdrawn and forlorn and developed seizures. Researchers and Six Flags veterinarians tried using steroids, phenobarbital, and Valium, but all failed to curb his symptoms. Thus, in a last-ditch effort, they decided for Cronutt to undergo brain surgery. If successful, this form of treatment could save the lives of countless other sea animals with similar afflictions as Cronutt.
As the New York Times reported, Cronutt became the first mammal to receive this operation. This operation, which has proven successful in curing epilepsy in mice, was executed by three neurosurgeons from the University of California, San Francisco, who normally operate on humans. First, a thin needle was inserted into a hole, which was drilled into his head. The surgeons then implanted embryonic cells from a 35 day-old pig. Pig cells are important because they contain similar properties to those of other mammal species, such as sea lions, and they tamp down the electrical activity in the brain that leads to seizures. While nothing is certain about the effectiveness of this surgery, County started breathing on his own by midday, which is a very promising sign.
While the success of Cronutt’s recovery remains to be seen, there is no doubt that other animals will require a similar procedure due to climate change. But with this innovative surgery, more animals will be given a fighting chance.