A massive Steller sea lion named Chonkers has turned the San Francisco waterfront into a tourist hotspot. Weighing 1,500 to 2,000 pounds, the creature arrived at Pier 39 after swimming roughly 30 miles from the Farallon Islands, sparking viral videos and packed crowds.

Experts say Chonkers’ presence signals a shift in local wildlife patterns and could affect pier operations. The Marine Mammal Center tracks him daily, noting that the shallow bay offers safer feeding grounds than the open ocean. Visitors flock to the wooden floats, where Chonkers dominates the scene, prompting concerns about space and safety for both animals and humans.

Pier 39 staff warn that continued visits may strain the pier’s infrastructure, designed for California sea lions that weigh up to 700 pounds. The influx of a giant Steller could drive higher maintenance costs and alter visitor flow, impacting local tourism revenue.