San Fran Sea Lions!

Even though San Fran. was cloudy on a few afternoons while I was there it did not deter me from going places and taking pictures. I am as fascinated as the next person to go and see the Sea Lions at Pier 39 whenever I am in town and this time was no different, except for the vast numbers of them. Usually there are approx. 300 or so but this year their numbers have swelled to 1500. At Pier 39 they have added 6 extra floating docks to accommodate the population explosion. Nobody can really explain why this has happened or why these mammals make their home there over the Winter.

My money is on this guy being the smart one! (well, who cares about being ostracized when you have to deal with photo below!)

Rather aggressive critters!

The Sea Lions can weigh up to 1,000 pounds (and I thought I was over weight :)

I think I might have all 1500 in this shot :)

Pier 39 is one of San Fran's most popular tourist attractions. I was over the hype the first time I visited but keep going back in the anticipation that things might be a bit different and I don't want to miss anything, typical tourist me :)

Because of the greater numbers of Sea Lions this year there is a turf war going on. The fishermen are not happy and it is swimmer beware! The Sea Lions might look cute but they are carnivores and can be pretty aggressive. The animals are also protected under federal law, so be nice to them or else :)

But truthfully, as much as people are fascinated by these creatures (and yes, I am included) they are very stinky, very aggressive and just steamroller over each other, oh wait a min. they are not too dissimilar to some humans I know (He! He!)

Happy Painting/Creating! :) T.