Massive sea lion makes rare appearance in San Francisco
Steller sea lions are more commonly found in the colder waters of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, making sightings in the Bay Area less common.
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Notable Quotes
"He’s like a Volkswagen! He’s so huge!"
— Oluwaseyi Akinbobola , Other
"He’s so precious, and he’s quite literally humongous."
— Danielle Ovadia , Other
"They figured out that in the bay they’re away from their predators like the great white shark and orca whales."
— Laura Gill , Academic
"they stray as far as San Francisco 'every few years'."
— Sheila Chandor , Other
Key People
A San Francisco resident who commented on the sea lion.
A San Francisco-based Reddit user who coined the nickname 'Chonkers' for the sea lion.
Public programs manager at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito.
A pygmy hippo in Thailand that gained fame for her entertaining antics.
A visitor from Los Angeles who came to see the giant sea lion.
A Southern California mountain lion known for his urban lifestyle.
Harbormaster in San Francisco who commented on the rare sea lion sightings.
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All Coverage
Steller sea lions are more commonly found in the colder waters of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, making sightings in the Bay Area less common.
A massive Steller sea lion, affectionately dubbed 'Chonkers,' has become a beloved attraction at San Francisco’s Pier 39, drawing crowds of curious onlookers and tourists eager to catch a glimpse.
Chonkers, a 2,000-pound Steller sea lion, has become an internet sensation after appearing at San Francisco’s Pier 39, captivating visitors with his massive size and mellow demeanor.
A particularly massive sea lion named 'Chonkers' has Bay Area tourists and residents flocking to Pier 39 in San Francisco to spot the mammal, which is much larger than the typical California sea lions.
A gigantic 2,000lb Steller sea lion nicknamed 'Chonkers' has become an unexpected local celebrity after taking up residence in the San Francisco Bay, drawing attention from residents and visitors alike.
San Francisco's most talked-about marine visitor, 'Chonkers,' the massive Steller sea lion, returned to Pier 39 early Wednesday morning, bringing excitement to the waterfront.
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