SAN DIEGO >> SeaWorld in San Diego is shutting down its sea lion and otter show so staff can help rescue stranded sea lion pups.

“Sea Lions Live” will go on hiatus beginning Saturday for at least two weeks so trainers can help the park’s animal rescue team in dealing with sick and emaciated pups.

SeaWorld spokesman Dave Koontz tells U-T San Diego it’s the first time animal rescues have forced a show closure.

Experts say unusually warm ocean water is stranding a larger number of sea lion pups on California beaches this year. Nursing mothers are forced to head further out to sea for food, leaving the pups behind.

Authorities say about 940 sea lions have washed ashore so far, compared to 225 for a typical January-to-April season.