The viral 2,000-pound Steller sea lion known as “Chonkers” has vanished from San Francisco’s Pier 39, leaving tourists disappointed. Experts suggest the marine mammal, a long-term intermittent visitor, likely departed for breeding grounds at the Farallon Islands or Año Nuevo Island, though his return remains possible in the coming months.
Vanishing Act at Pier 39
For visitors arriving at San Francisco’s Pier 39 this week, the primary attraction is missing. “Chonkers,” a massive Steller sea lion that became a local celebrity during a recent extended residency, has not been seen since Friday. The sea lion, estimated to weigh roughly 2,000 pounds, drew significant crowds to the waterfront, eventually earning his own signage and commemorative plush toys sold by the Marine Mammal Center.
Despite the disappointment, fans continued to scan the docks in hopes of catching a glimpse of the animal. We thought we'd stop in and see Chonkers, so we're hoping to see him,
one visitor told reporters. Another noted, I feel like I heard a few people saying, 'Oh, I think I see him in the back here', but I don't I don't think anybody actually did.
Expert Analysis on Migration Patterns
While fans speculate about his sudden departure, scientists point toward natural biological rhythms. Daniel Costa, a professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of California at Santa Cruz, explained that the sea lion’s absence is likely tied to the upcoming breeding season. I suspect that he is now at the Farallon Islands, too, right off San Francisco or maybe even Ano Nuevo island,
Costa said.
Although the animal has been a regular, intermittent visitor to the pier for approximately 15 years, this most recent stay was notably longer than usual. Costa noted that the extended visit indicates the pier served as an attractive habitat for the sea lion, but warned that his return is not guaranteed. We could see him tomorrow. We could not. We might not see him for months. He might not ever come back,
he added.
The Cultural Impact of a Local Celebrity
Even in his absence, the site remains a draw. It’s just so great to be on the water.
So I’m really not that sad about it.
I mean, it’s still just a beautiful day, so never a bad time,
one visitor said. Pier 39 officials confirmed that reports of a lookalike
sea lion have circulated among the crowds, though experts clarify that these sightings likely involve large California sea lions rather than the Steller species.
The Marine Mammal Center continues to offer merchandise inspired by the sea lion, cementing his status as a Bay Area icon. The pier remains open to the public, though the star attraction remains at sea.
Professional Sports and Grappling Updates
While the waterfront adjusts to the absence of its most famous visitor, the broader sports landscape continues to move forward. In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 18-year-old Helena Crevar is preparing for her debut at ONE Fight Night 39. The event is scheduled for Friday, January 23, at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. Crevar, a student of Gordon Ryan and John Danaher, is set to face Teshya Noelani Alo in a bantamweight submission grappling bout.
In other athletic news, the 2026 Open Championship recently concluded, featuring standout performances from golfers such as Tommy Fleetwood, Rory McIlroy, and Ryan Fox, as reported by the BBC. The tournament highlighted a busy summer for international sports, standing in stark contrast to the quiet docks of Pier 39 where spectators wait for the return of their favorite sea lion.
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