Sea Lions Bask on Seattle Breakwater

Warmer winter weather brings the marine mammals to Shilshole Bay Marina

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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As temperatures in Seattle reached the 50s last week, a group of sea lions were spotted lounging on the breakwater at Shilshole Bay Marina, enjoying the unseasonably warm weather.

Why it matters

The presence of sea lions on the breakwater is an indicator of the region's marine ecosystem and how it is being impacted by climate change. Warmer winters can affect the sea lions' typical behaviors and migration patterns.

The details

The sea lions were photographed by a Seattle Times photographer relaxing on the breakwater, a structure designed to protect the marina from waves. Their loud calls could be heard across the bay as they basked in the sun.

  • The sea lions were spotted last week.

The players

Shilshole Bay Marina

A marina located in Seattle, Washington that provides moorage for recreational boats.

Ken Lambert

A photographer for The Seattle Times who captured images of the sea lions on the breakwater.

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The takeaway

The presence of sea lions on the breakwater is a visible sign of how climate change is impacting the local marine ecosystem, as warmer winter temperatures draw the animals to new areas in search of food and shelter.