Pier 39 Welcomes Another Giant Sea Lion

A Steller sea lion, noted to be smaller than the famous Chonkers, has made an appearance on Pier 39's K-Dock. This sighting comes amid a reported increase in Steller sea lion appearances this year, a phenomenon attributed to the availability of food such as anchovies and herring. Steller sea lions are the largest of all eared seals, distinguished by their bear-like faces and significant size, capable of reaching up to 11 feet in length and weighing as much as 2,500 pounds.

While Steller sea lion visits to Pier 39 are infrequent, they are not uncommon. The prolonged stay of Chonkers, which lasted approximately two months, was particularly unusual and garnered international attention. The Marine Mammal Center even released a commemorative plushie of Chonkers, which sold out quickly. For now, Pier 39 staff have no plans to name the new visitor, anticipating its departure within a couple of days, though they hope it will attract tourists during the holiday weekend.