16 Oct, 2009
California’s Noisy Neighbors (Seals & Sea Lions) Make Themselves at Home
Posted by: Beach Reporter In: beaches| california
Newport Beach harbor sea lions and seals take over
The photo shot today shows kayakers rowing past seals and sea lions that have taken over public and private docks, boats and yachts in Newport Beach’s harbor.
California Coast– Thanks to an especially strong breeding season, the seals and sea lions along the coast of California are moving into their new digs. Harbors, wharfs, private yachts and even fishing boats have become fair play as the ocean mammals claim squatters rights. The problem drew much attention in San Francisco recently, where Pier 39 actually has held annual celebrations for their return.
Heated controversies over the creatures have included decade-long battles in places such as Children’s Beach in La Jolla, and now San Franciscans are rethinking their policies in welcoming them. Commercial fishing ports and public beaches are swamped with the 1000 pound creatures that bark loudly, damage boat docks and even bump into swimmers in the bay. Locals say that it’s hard to work when the sea lions take over their berths used for commercial fishing.
The Port of San Francisco plans to make the docks “sea lion proof” by installing 200 feet of mesh rubber barricade, and if that doesn’t work, other options may include loud music, flashing lights, and water spraying to annoy them.
In Newport Beach, the same sort of migration is occurring. Some docks have been taken over, and the bright orange mesh is appearing on boats and yachts moored in the harbor.
