Public access to San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California, has been temporarily closed after a large group of sea lions took over the area. According to a Facebook post from the city, the closure began on August 21 when hundreds of sea lions occupied the shoreline.
The city also shut down nearby Sister City Park, which is located close to Fisherman’s Wharf. No date has been given for when public access to these areas will be restored.
Sea lions are native to coastal waters and are described as “playful, intelligent and very vocal,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Their barking helps them communicate with each other. Mother sea lions can identify their pups among hundreds by their calls.
These animals mainly eat squid, anchovies, and sardines. The NOAA says that people should keep at least 50 yards away from sea lions because they are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Anyone who tries to capture or feed them can be fined.
Monterey is located about 120 miles southeast of San Francisco.