'Chonkers' Captivates San Francisco

A giant Steller sea lion, affectionately known as ‘Chonkers,’ is drawing significant crowds to Pier 39 in San Francisco. The massive marine mammal, weighing nearly 2,000 pounds, has become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

An Unusually Long Visit

Chonkers has been visiting Pier 39 for over a month, an unusually extended stay for the species. Steller sea lions are typically found in the colder waters of Alaska, making his presence in San Francisco noteworthy. He previously visited the pier every few years, with his last sighting two years ago, but those visits were much shorter.

Abundant Fish Attracts the Giant

According to Sheila Chandor, the Pier 39 Harbor Master, the abundance of fish in the San Francisco Bay is the primary reason for Chonkers’ prolonged stay. “It’s always food that brings them in,” Chandor stated. “There’s a lot of fish in the bay right now.”

Tourism Boost and Viewing Tips

The arrival of ‘Chonkers’ has provided a welcome boost to local tourism, especially during the quieter period between spring break and summer. Visitors are traveling from across the United States and Canada hoping to catch a glimpse of the enormous sea lion.

Prime Viewing Times

Despite his size, Chonkers is not aggressive but can be elusive. Chandor advises visitors to arrive early, between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., for the best chance of spotting him. Pier 39 staff are monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of both visitors and the animal.

A Unique Opportunity

Chonkers is at least double the size of the more common California sea lions that inhabit the pier. The opportunity to observe such a large and rare visitor is proving to be a memorable experience for many, further enhancing Pier 39’s appeal as a destination.