Species
Steller sea lion, not the standard California sea lion group.
Sea-lebrity watch
Chonkers is the oversized reason everyone checks the dock twice.
Chonkers is a Steller sea lion, much larger than the California sea lions usually lounging at K-Dock. Sightings are not guaranteed, which is exactly why he became a rail-side obsession.
Quick ID
Look for scale first.
PIER 39’s usual animals are California sea lions. Chonkers stands out because Steller sea lions can be dramatically larger, with heavier shoulders and a bulkier profile.
Plan a viewing attemptWhy viral
Huge size, irregular appearances, and a very memeable nickname.
Reality check
He is wild. Use the official webcam before treating a sighting like an appointment.
Ethics
Crowds should stay behind public railings and avoid any behavior that disturbs marine mammals.