Hundreds of California sea lions have taken over a beach in Monterey in the United States. Local authorities temporarily closed the area to people so as not to disturb or frighten the animals. However, many people come here and admire the sea lions from afar.
“They are noisy and seem belligerent. Some attack each other. They have a lot of energy and seem to be having a great time. They are cool. They seem to be happy and enjoying a good day,” the locals say.
Staff at the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary say sea lions may have been attracted by the abundance of diverse foods.
Lisa Uttal, marine biologist:
“They migrate here from Ventura and the Channel Islands. All these sea lions are adult and young males. Sometimes there are females who probably got a little lost and also swam here.”
Sea lions will stay on the beach for three to four weeks, and then people can occupy it again.
