Lima, Peru - Authorities in Peru have reported that at least 585 sea lions have died from a bird flu epidemic that has been affecting other animals as well.

The dead marine mammals were discovered along the coast of the South American country in seven protected areas, the Administration of Protected Areas (SERNANP) said.

An examination of the animal carcasses showed that the mammals had been infected with H5N1 avian influenza virus.

The authorities also found some 55,000 dead birds in various protected areas. The birds tested positive for the virus. The authorities reported finding deceased pelicans, blue-footed boobies, gulls, and penguins. The agricultural health authority SENASA believes that the bird flu was introduced to Peru by migratory birds.

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Currently, the largest avian flu epidemic ever documented is wreaking havoc on animal populations around the world. Three grizzly bears in Montana were recently euthanized after they tested positive for the virus. The highly contagious pathogen had also been detected in raccoons, foxes, weasels, and mink.

The outbreak of avian flu on a mink farm in Spain has worried health experts, as they think the pathogen may have been transmitted from mammal to mammal.

This might indicate that the H5N1 virus is adapting to mammals, which could make it more dangerous to humans.