A video of sea lions charging after beachgoers went viral.
The video shows two sea lions chasing a large crowd at La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California.
They eventually returned to the water.
Check out the video below:
Sea lions fed up, chase beach goers off their turf in La Jolla, California. pic.twitter.com/tC7AvQrj0I
— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) July 10, 2022
FOX5 San Diego reported that Charlianne Yeyna, a Riverside County resident visiting San Diego, said she began recording after seeing another woman trying to take a picture of one of the sea lions while it was sleeping.
In the middle of the picture, the sea lion reportedly woke up and began to charge after the woman.
According to the outlet, since being posted on Saturday, the video has been viewed 7.3 million times and liked 970,000 times.
No one appeared to be injured, as FOX5 San Diego reported.
In June 2021, the La Jolla Light reported that San Diego would be posting signs advising visitors to keep a “social distance” from the sea lions.
San Diego Park & Recreation Department Director Andy Field explained, “While it’s understandable for the public to be fascinated by the local sea lion population and want a closer look, it is of the utmost importance that we are doing everything we can to protect and respect these animals while they care for their young.”
Councilman Joe LaCava continued, “There are few places where you can be on dry land and watch the sea lions up close in their natural setting. Being this close has its advantages, it’s a memorable experience for children and adults alike.”
Still, LaCava said, “We have to remember we share the coastline with these marine mammals, which seem docile, but are wild animals that will protect themselves and their young. We are committed to keeping both humans and animals safe … not only during pupping season, but all year round.”
