This spring, a massive Steller Sea Lion took San Francisco (and the internet) by storm. Affectionately named Chonkers, the sea lion became famous for hauling out at Pier 39 among the much smaller California Sea Lions that typically populate the dock.
Steller Sea Lions at Pier 39
Now, another Steller Sea Lion has been spotted on the dock, although officials have confirmed it’s not the famed sea lion Chonkers, according to Kron4. While the new Sea Lion isn’t Chonkers, it is the same type of sea lion, which is notably larger than its companions on the dock.
Steller Sea Lions can weigh over 2,000 pounds and reach up to 11 feet long. California Sea Lions, which typically haul out on the dock, reach up to 850 pounds and 7 feet in length. Chonkers was seen on Pier 39 for several weeks this spring, and the new Steller Sea Lion is a welcome addition to the dock.
Pier 39 is a well-known destination for tourists, and the famous sea lions love to sunbathe on the K-Dock. The pier has seen a record-breaking number of sea lions (approximately 2,000) in recent years. Along with its iconic sea lions, Pier 39 boasts a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions, including scenic cruises on the bay. If you can’t make it to the pier to see the new Steller Sea Lion in all its glory, check out a live stream that focuses on the sea lions run by Pier 39.