Record number of barking mad sea lions take over famed San Francisco pier

Over a thousand sea lions descended upon San Francisco’s bustling Pier 39, marking the largest gathering of these charismatic creatures in 15 years. These aquatic mammals weren’t shy, basking, barking, and jostling for prime spots on the docks near Fisherman’s Wharf’s iconic Ferris wheel.

Experts believe a surge in anchovies, a favorite food source for sea lions, is behind the population boom. The throng of sea lions proved to be a delightful surprise for onlookers who couldn’t resist stopping to admire the adorable, portly visitors.

“It looks like a bunch of kids vying for a big spot on the couch,” tourist Les Oakes remarked to the outlet on Tuesday, “pretty cool.”