If you happened to enterprise to San Carlos Beach in Monterey in the previous few months, you were likely greeted by the barks and powerful smells of California sea lions after which treated to the sight of over 2,000 sea lions frolicking on the beach. This led to the City of Monterey closing the beach from August 17 through October. 4. Divers in wetsuits, people lounging on the grassy slopes and kids splashing within the shallows have now returned, however the sea lions haven’t yet left the Monterey coast. Large numbers have recently moved to Sister City Park, deciding on the rocky shoreline, docks, launch ramps and boats.
California sea lions reside within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary year-round and their population is increasing. One reason for his or her population growth is the passage of the Marine Mammal Protection Act in 1972. Dr. Daniel Costa, a noted marine mammal researcher, says: “In 1972, we estimated the population of about 89,000 sea lions from Baja California to Washington State. With conservation measures, the California sea lion population was estimated to be approximately 260,000 individuals in 2024. This remarkable recovery occurred despite the loss of sea lions to fishing gear and other human interactions.”
In August, adult males migrate north from Southern California, drawn to the refuge to feed on the abundance of coastal small fish similar to anchovies and sardines. Costa explains: “We now have both a recovering population and a population that may be moving north due to changing habitats.”
This August, California sea lions used San Carlos Beach as their primary staging area. MBNMS staff and Bay Net volunteers have worked closely with the City of Monterey to make sure the protection of the ocean lions and wildlife watchers. Karen Grimmer, MBNMS Resource Conservation Coordinator, explains, “The sheer number of animals on San Carlos Beach has kept our staff and volunteers busy putting up signs, coordinating with the city for closures and answering questions about the animals. We reached out to local dive shops and clubs who were very responsive and avoided using the beach.”
The sanctuary works with the Marine Mammal Center, which works to preserve wildlife. Touching, moving, feeding or pushing marine mammals, in addition to chasing or biting dogs, are considered harassment and are prohibited by law. The sanctuary and the MMC encourage wildlife watchers to keep up social distancing (45 meters), use a zoom to take photos (no selfies!), keep dogs on a leash and call the MMC (415-289-SEAL (7325)). when an animal is in distress. When the barking subsides, take a moment to securely benefit from the wonder of nature right on our doorstep here in Monterey Bay.
Originally published:
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