The Aquatic Park Cove located on the San Francisco waterfront is a favorite spot for swimmers where people arrive in large numbers to relax on the beach and enjoy a swim. However, it has been temporarily declared out of bounds after three instances of Sea Lion attacks have been reported in the area. The ban will remain till such time it is found to be safe.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the third attack within a week was a matter of concern and it led officials to ban swimming in the area. Following the incidents, local authorities posted warnings advising people to stay out of the water.
Taken by surprise, officials remarked that nothing like this has ever happened before.
The recent victims
Two of the victims were members of a rowing club, which is supposed to be the oldest swimming and rowing club in San Francisco. The sea lion is believed to have come up from below and grabbed one of them on the inside of his thigh.
San Francisco Police Officer Matthew Reiter has revealed that the man was an experienced swimmer, and was rescued by a nearby sailboat when they saw him injured and trying to remain afloat. The occupants of the boat handed him over to the Coast Guard. He was later shifted to a nearby hospital.
Previous to that, there was an incident of a man who suffered injuries when a sea lion bit his hands but it is not known whether it was the same creature.
There was another similar incident a few days ago where the injuries were not serious enough to warrant medical intervention.
Why these attacks?
In the opinion of experts, the behavior of sea lions is unpredictable and they can become aggressive at times. They have sharp teeth and could turn vicious depending on the prevailing circumstances.
These could be possible responses in case they are cornered, or feel threatened in any way. It could also happen when they are protecting their young to ensure their safety. They are usually playful but can become dangerous during the mating season.
BBC adds that the authorities of the aquatic park in San Francisco believe there is only one animal responsible for the attacks.
The local Marine Mammal Center has informed the public that there have been 10 such attacks over a three-year period. Obviously, swimmers cannot take them for granted and must be careful, because their behavior can be erratic.
It may be recalled that in May, a sea lion dragged a young girl into the water at Steveston Fisherman's Wharf in Richmond, western Canada. Fortunately, she escaped unhurt.
