Experts say frightening encounters with sea lions are becoming more common and the likely reason for recent attacks is a toxic algae bloom poisoning the marine mammals, leading to rare acts of aggression as they move to shallow waters and in closer proximity to beachgoers.

The toxicity of this particular bloom seems to be a lot higher, ” said a marine biologist. “Animals are in worse shape than they have been in the past.”

Phoebe Beltran was in the homestretch of her 1,000-yard swim when she suddenly felt an intense pain as the sea lion bit her right arm.

In recent weeks, hundreds of sea lions, dolphins and other animals have turned up in the sand dead or seriously ill, alarming rescuers and beachgoers alike.

Hundreds of sea lions have died amid a toxic algae bloom, with some animals becoming dangerous and acting erratically.

The attack occurred in the area of Ocean Boulevard and Cherry Avenue, in front of the Long Beach Lifeguard Headquarters on 2100 East Ocean Boulevard.

15-year-old Phoebe Beltran has several cuts on her right arm and was hospitalized following the confrontation with the animal on Sunday. Although she has since been released from the hospital and was well enough to return to school, she said the attack has left her shaken up.