At Pier 39 in San Francisco, the spotlight is shining on a very special Steller sea lion known as“Chonkers.”Weighing in at an astonishing 2,000 pounds, Chonkers is certainly making waves—literally and figuratively—captivating both locals and tourists with his impressive size and charming demeanor. While California sea lions are a common sight in the area, Chonkers is a rarity, sparking excitement among visitors and boosting tourism at the iconic pier.
Chonkers’stay has been particularly noteworthy as he has been lounging around for over a month, a much longer visit than usual for this species. Harbor master Sheila Chandor noted that Steller sea lions are typically seen more frequently in Alaska, making Chonkers’ visit a unique opportunity for those in San Francisco. His appearance not only delights onlookers but also generates buzz, as visitors eagerly seek him out, far and wide, to catch a glimpse of this impressive creature.
With ample fish available in the bay, it’s no wonder Chonkers decided to drop in and make Pier 39 his temporary home. As families and friends flock to the waterfront in hopes of seeing him, one can’t help but chuckle at the unexpected celebrity that this sea lion has become. It just goes to show you never know who or what might steal the show—especially when there’s a fish dinner involved!
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
