Crazy photos show sea lion attacking leopard shark near Alcatraz

A sea lion attacks a baby leopard shark near Alcatraz on Sunday, March 19, 2019. A sea lion attacks a baby leopard shark near Alcatraz on Sunday, March 19, 2019. Photo: Tori Gorman Photo: Tori Gorman Image 1 of / 29 Caption Close Crazy photos show sea lion attacking leopard shark near Alcatraz 1 / 29 Back to Gallery

Tori Gorman signed up to monitor the safety of swimmers during a race in the San Francisco Bay Sunday morning, but got a front-row seat to a show of nature instead.

"We had just done a loop down to Pier 39 in the boat and were coming back when we saw splashing and slowed down to take a look. When we realized what we were seeing, we were amazed."

A sea lion was making breakfast — somewhat violently — out of a leopard shark, thrashing it around in the water as it struggled to get away.

Marine Mammal Center staff veterinarian Dr. Cara Field explained sea lions are opportunistic feeders that sometimes feed on smaller shark species, like leopard and thresher sharks. What Gorman witnessed was likely a sea lion hunting strategy.

WHALE WATCHING: More whales are hanging out in San Francisco Bay. It may be a bad sign.

"The images shown are consistent with an adult male California sea lion preying on a leopard shark by utilizing a flinging technique during foraging that temporarily stuns the prey by taking it out of its element."

Gorman was stunned, too. She snapped a few photos on her iPhone and watched in awe as the attack went on for five minutes.

"It was a National Geographic moment for sure."

People come from around the world to see San Francisco's sea lions, but visitors should always keep a safe distance. They've been known to attack swimmers in San Francisco's Aquatic Park, though incidents are rare.

"California sea lions are wild animals that can be unpredictable," said Dr. Field.

The Marine Mammal Center advises people to keep a safe distance on the beach and in the water. If you see a sea lion or seal in distress, you can call the Marine Mammal Center at 415-289-SEAL.

Read Alix Martichoux's latest stories and send her news tips at alix.martichoux@sfgate.com.

Start receiving breaking news emails on wildfires, civil emergencies, riots, national breaking news, Amber Alerts, weather emergencies, and other critical events with the SFGATE breaking news email. Click here to make sure you get the news.