In a Southern California beach community, sunbathers were sent scurrying for safety as two enormous sea lions unexpectedly emerged from the ocean in San Diego.
Capturing the dramatic scene on Instagram on July 7, Dion Ruzicka shared a video showing these formidable sea creatures charging onto the shore, sending beachgoers into a frenzy under the sunny California sky.
One of the sea lions lunged forward unpredictably, causing a startled reaction among those on the beach. As the massive animal raced across the sand, the shocked visitors shrieked and dashed away with the growling creature in pursuit.
Just moments later, chaos intensified as a second sea lion entered the fray, causing the terrified crowds to flee toward higher ground or even dive into the surf to evade the pursuing pair.
The more the onlookers ran, the more the bulky sea lions were spurred on, engaging the escaping beachgoers in an uncanny chase across the sandy expanse.
“Oh my God,” one person could be heard saying, in the midst of the chaotic scramble.
It didn’t matter whether the visitor was young or old, the sea lion just kept chasing them. Finally, both animals dived back into the ocean and swam away at a quick pace.
It is not the first time such an encounter has happened in the popular La Jolla spot. A year ago, a video showed a pair of sea lions chasing beachgoers around before finally leaving.
San Diego has warned the public about the potential dangers of going near wildlife living in the area.
“With the increase in the sea lion population, Point La Jolla has become a popular tourist destination for the public to view these wild animals close up,” a message on the city’s website read.
As a result, interactions between sea lions and the public have increased.
“Members of the public have been observed trying to touch, take selfies, and get as close to sea lions as possible which is a dangerous situation for both the public and the animals,” it added.
Officials suggest people watch the animals from the boardwalk and keep their distance from the sea lions.
While it is unclear what lead to Tuesday’s chase, the summer months are pupping season for these ocean animals. Mothers and fathers become protective of their young ones, and will display aggressive behavior, if they sense a threat, per officials.
“These interactions are not only dangerous for both humans and wildlife, it may be a violation of the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act which helps to safeguard these animals,” the city said.
The California Post has reached out to the La Jolla Parks and Beaches group for further comment.