Crowds gathered at San Francisco’s Pier 39 this week to catch a glimpse of “Chonkers,” a giant Steller sea lion spotted resting among much smaller California sea lions.
Visitors stopped to take photos as the large marine mammal lounged on the dock, occasionally moving through the crowded pier before diving into the water.
Marine experts say the animal belongs to the Steller species, the largest type of sea lion, with adult males capable of weighing more than a ton.
Officials believe the sea lion may be stopping in San Francisco to feed and rest before returning to colder northern waters near Alaska.