Hundreds of sea lions filled the beach in California (5 photos + 1 video)

Authorities had to temporarily close it to visitors.





Hundreds of sea lions, or eared seals, have taken over San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California. Authorities even had to temporarily close the area to visitors.

Despite the fence, crowds of residents and tourists gather at the beach. They come to watch the animals relaxing on the beach and take a few photos. Residents of Monterey say they have never seen so many marine mammals in the area.



According to experts at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, it is impossible to say exactly why the sea lions chose San Carlos Beach. However, biologists suggest that the seals could have been attracted by the rich variety of food sources. In addition, most of the animals gathered on the beach are males, the scientists note.





The eared seals are expected to remain on San Carlos Beach for another 2-3 weeks.

Sea lions are protected by a 1972 U.S. law that prohibits people from influencing the animals' behavior, including approaching, scaring, or driving them away.





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