The Edmonds sea lions are way more than OK. They’re thriving

The Port of Edmonds is experiencing an unusually large influx of sea lions this spring, with an estimated 80-100 lounging on docks in late April 2026. While the federally protected marine mammals are thriving and causing no alarm, they’re damaging dock infrastructure, power systems, and boats—costing the port about $5,000 in deterrence efforts so far. Port staff use noise, water, and plastic spikes to manage the situation while following strict federal Marine Mammal Protection Act guidelines.