California Sea Lions Pier 39 San Francisco 18 Stock Photography

The California Sea Lion, Zalophus Californians, at Pier 39 in San Francisco, were a sudden appearance there just after the Loma Prieta Earthquake of October 1989. The docks they took over were all intended for boats, and because it is easier, and safer to move boats than wild sea lions, the sea lions were allowed to stay. It is believed that the Earthquake caused a much larger than normal amount of herring, one of the sea lions favorite diet, enticed just one of the sea lions. Because of that one, dozens then came, then hundreds. So now, 35 years later, there can be 600 to 900 of these fun marine mammals. As enjoyed 13 March 2024.