San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf district is currently experiencing a surge in sea lions, with over 1,000 spotted this week. The sea lions have been a popular tourist attraction since they first appeared at Pier 39 after a 1989 earthquake. Harbormaster Sheila Chandor believes the influx of sea lions is due to the abundance of food available in the area, indicating that they may be preparing for mating season. The sea lions can be seen lounging, biting each other, and making noise in numbers not seen in over a decade.
The number of sea lions at Pier 39 can vary depending on the season, with usually more than a hundred present on most days. However, this week, Chandor has counted over 1,000 sea lions, the most seen in 15 years. A large school of anchovies, a favorite food of sea lions, is believed to have brought them to the area. Biologists note that the number of anchovies in the bay is particularly high this spring, with the schooling fish located off the Farallon Islands.
The increase in sea lions is expected to be temporary, as they may be fueling up for mating season. The barges the sea lions use for lounging are being put to the test due to the weight of the animals. Local businesses in the Fisherman’s Wharf district are optimistic that the surge in sea lions will attract more tourists to the area, resulting in increased shopping and sightseeing. Visitors from around the world have been flocking to the pier to catch a glimpse of the large and noisy herd of sea lions.
In the past, the pier has seen large numbers of sea lions, with up to 1,700 arriving at once. Typically, there are around 300 to 400 sea lions in the winter and up to 700 in the spring. Visitors have been delighted by the sight of the sea lions fighting and relaxing in the sun. Despite the noise, many find it fascinating to watch the sea lions interact with each other. The situation is a unique and exciting experience for tourists and locals alike, highlighting the wonder of nature and the importance of preserving marine wildlife.
