Sea lion census

Disturbance for sea water sampleEvery day an hour before high tide we have to take seawater samples for a long term database for DFO on Salinity and Temperature. It is unfortunate they have to be disturbed, but since they return directly afterward, the impact is minimal. The California sea lions stick to the docks as long as possible and reluctantly leave eventually . After the bucket has been filled, it is returned to the tank room  for the analysis.

California Sea Lion: 172

NE haulout – 97;
East Bay – 44
South Rocks – 8
S/W/NW Great Race – 30
Middle Island – 0
Northern Sea Lion: 95
NE haulout – 34
Middle Island – 61