Hundreds of sea lions crowd California city park forcing its closure, warnings from officials

A barricade has been set up to keep both people and sea lions safe.Photo byRichard LinonUnsplash

Monterey’s Sister City Park remains closed as hundreds of sea lions have crowded the beach, prompting city officials to block access for public safety and the protection of the animals. A barricade has been set up to keep both people and sea lions safe.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has launched an investigation into a recent incident involving harassment of the sea lions, which are protected under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. Violators could face fines or jail time for disturbing the animals.

Each summer, sea lions gather in the area, with this year’s main landing at San Carlos Beach. Most of the sea lions are males, attracted by abundant food close to shore in Monterey Bay. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary has worked closely with the city to monitor the sea lions and ensure their protection. Experts anticipate the sea lions will soon return to the Channel Islands, but if they remain, the city may take further action, including additional beach closures.