Chris Mills, a Seattle resident, created Sea Lion Radio to preserve the vocalizations of California sea lions in Shilshole Bay. For months each year, these animals fill his home with constant barks and yaps. Mills, 62, retired from tech to document their sounds after they migrate south. He records on docks, avoiding wind and human interference. The radio streams a 6-hour loop of sea lion calls, blending natural ambiance with urban elements like boats. Mills calls it a 'flipper-powered community service,' emphasizing its non-professional, personal nature.

The project began after Mills noticed the sea lions' impending absence. He started recording at Shilshole Bay, where 300,000 California sea lions gather. Challenges included technical issues and balancing environmental sounds. He rejects construction noise but includes boat activity for context. His wife, Brenda Savage, notes his quirky passion, comparing it to his obsession with the Albert, a historic ship. Mills’ work highlights the unique ecology of Shilshole Bay and the cultural role of sea lions in Seattle.

Despite detractors wanting to cull sea lions for salmon populations, Mills focuses on their auditory impact. He recommends listening for 15 minutes to appreciate tonal variations. The radio includes Steller sea lions, heavier and more dominant. Mills funded the site with $500, using stickers and word-of-mouth. His broader interests, like the Albert’s history, reflect his eccentric curiosity. The project bridges local ecology with personal storytelling, offering a niche auditory snapshot of Seattle’s wildlife.

Sea Lion Radio operates 24/7, funded modestly. Mills’ dedication underscores a niche hobby turned community project. Listeners experience raw, unfiltered marine life sounds, contrasting with Seattle’s typical urban noise. The radio’s simplicity—no live stream, just loops—emphasizes authenticity. Mills’ approach, though unconventional, resonates with those who value ephemeral natural phenomena.