A massive Steller sea lion made a brief appearance at San Francisco’s Pier 39, prompting immediate speculation that the internet-famous animal known as Chonkers had returned. Experts checked the evidence and delivered the marine-mammal equivalent of ‘that is not your friend.’
Pier 39 staff determined the visitor was a different Steller sea lion. They nicknamed the newcomer Beefy Buddy, which is both scientifically informal and objectively correct.
A very large case of mistaken identity
Steller sea lions are much larger than the California sea lions normally piled across the docks. Adult males can weigh roughly 2,500 pounds, making Beefy Buddy difficult to overlook and even more difficult to ask to move.
Chonkers became an online favorite after spending about six weeks at Pier 39 earlier in 2026. The new arrival had a similar build but different identifying features, according to staff and marine experts cited by the San Francisco Chronicle.
Then Beefy Buddy disappeared
By the following day, the animal had left. Experts said it was likely feeding elsewhere in the bay, where changing food conditions may be contributing to more Steller sea lion visits this year.
The departure is normal wildlife behavior, even if it is disappointing to people who had already assigned the animal a name, a fan base and a developing personal brand. Sea lions do not recognize content schedules.
Pier 39 staff hope Beefy Buddy may return. Until then, San Francisco has another enormous, mysterious visitor who arrived without reservations, drew a crowd and left before paying for parking.
Facts first. Side-eye included.
DJF separates what is confirmed from what is claimed—and tells you why this particular mess is worth your time.