Massive 2,000-Pound Sea Lion Takes Over San Francisco Pier

Clear Facts

• A Steller sea lion nicknamed “Chonkers,” weighing up to 2,000 pounds, has taken up residence at San Francisco’s Pier 39
• The rare visitor from Pacific Northwest waters dwarfs the typical California sea lions that inhabit the pier
• Tourists are flocking to the waterfront attraction to photograph the massive marine mammal lounging among smaller sea lions

An unusually large Steller sea lion is creating quite a stir at one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist destinations. The massive marine mammal, affectionately nicknamed “Chonkers” by observers, has been spotted at Pier 39, where he stands out dramatically from the smaller California sea lions that typically populate the docks.

Experts from The Marine Mammal Center estimate the animal weighs between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds. He likely traveled south from waters off Washington or Oregon, according to Laura Gill, public programs manager at the Sausalito-based center.

“He’s like a Volkswagen! He’s so huge!”

Those were the words of visitor Oluwaseyi Akinbobola, who made a special trip to the pier after hearing about the remarkable animal. Tourists have been gathering along the waterfront, cameras in hand, hoping to catch a glimpse of the oversized visitor as he flops onto the docks surrounded by dozens of much smaller sea lions.

The protected pier environment offers ideal conditions for marine mammals. Chonkers enjoys shelter from predators and rough ocean waves, along with an abundant food supply including anchovies, herring and rockfish in San Francisco Bay.

“There’s plenty of food in San Francisco Bay for them … a lot of easy prey for them.”

Despite his imposing size, the Steller sea lion has been observed trying to nestle among the smaller California sea lions for warmth. According to Gill, he “sticks out like a sore thumb” among his more petite companions.

Sea lions have been a fixture at Pier 39 since shortly after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, which had its epicenter in nearby Santa Cruz County. What began as a small group of animals taking up residence on the docks has grown into one of San Francisco’s most beloved tourist attractions over the past three decades.

Visitors hoping to see Chonkers should plan their trip carefully. The massive sea lion tends to be most visible during early morning hours and can be difficult to spot later in the day, creating a sense of urgency among wildlife enthusiasts.

Marine mammal officials say it’s unclear whether additional Steller sea lions might follow Chonkers to the popular pier. For now, the rare visitor has become an overnight sensation, drawing crowds to witness nature’s spectacle at this iconic waterfront destination.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.