Should the City Remove Sea Lions From La Jolla Cove?
A new movement to remove the native seals and sea lions in La Jolla Cove is gaining ground among residents of the area.
The La Jolla Cove seals and sea lions are an iconic part of the neighborhood. However, given an increase in contact between the sea lions and humans, local officials have taken steps to close off access to popular sea lion pupping grounds.
Bob Evans, president of La Jolla Parks and Beaches, told FOX 5 that the sea lions are monopolizing local beaches around the neighborhood. He added that “there is not enough room for them” and said “the city needs to take action now and remove them from La Jolla Cove.”
Evans suggests that city officials could use water hoses to deter the marine mammals off of city beaches — a tactic used by some federal agencies. He said his organization is taking steps to advocate for the strategy to the city.
However, some aren’t so sure about the plan to remove them. Carol Toye of the Seal Society told FOX 5 that she finds the plan to permanently remove the sea lions from La Jolla beaches. However, she did agree that the city needs to take action to protect the animals.
“We feel there is an immediate need for better protocols and management in the cove” she said.
Generally, sea lions and humans have coexisted peacefully at La Jolla Cove, but there have been some close encounters between the two populations — including in a viral video that seemingly saw a sea lion charging a group of beachgoers.
Whether city officials remove sea lions from La Jolla Cove or not, experts warn that those visiting should give the animals plenty of space.
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Mike Peterson is a writer, editor, and strategist based in San Diego. When he’s not writing and editing the La Jolla news, you can often find him practicing yoga, rock climbing, or exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.
