Hundreds of sea lions appear on California beaches: Incredible sight
Hundreds of sea lions recently suddenly appeared at San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California, causing local officials to close the area to the public for fear of sea lions causing a riot. Despite the warning signs, locals and curious tourists alike were delighted by the presence of these uninvited guests, snapping photos as the sea lions rested and played in the sand and underwater. The distinctive sounds of sea lions, from growls to barks, create a unique chorus that is often used to communicate with each other.
Locals said they had never witnessed such a large gathering of sea lions on San Carlos beach before. Natalie Humphrey, a tourist from Atlanta, commented: “We’ve been to San Diego and La Jolla and seen sea lions there, but this felt like tenfold. They looked so happy and seemed like enjoying a wonderful day.” Lisa Uttal from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary notes that although the exact reason why sea lions choose San Carlos beach is unclear, they may be attracted by the abundance of food in the ecosystem .
This area is full of fish, squid and other marine life that sea lions often eat. Uttal predicts that the sea lions could stay on San Carlos beach for three to four weeks, providing a unique sight and a reminder of the dynamic interactions in the coastal environment.
This also creates curiosity for tourists, witnessing such a rare moment for the first time will leave an impression in the hearts of everyone when they come to stay on this beach.
Sea lions or sea lions are mammals in the subfamily Otariinae. Sea lions and fur seals form the family Otariidae, which has an average lifespan of 20-30 years. A California sea lion weighs on average about 300 kg and is about 2.4 m long while female sea lions weigh 100 kg and are up to 1.8 m long.
