Bob Beziuk, general manager of Steveston Harbour, said sea lions will engage with visitors if they are fed — but they’re still dangerous wild animals.
“If you throw things into the water to attract them, they’re not to be messed with,” Beziuk told WHO's sister publication PEOPLE on Sunday. He said the harbor has signs posted warning visitors of feeding the animals.
Beziuk added that he “first and foremost” hopes the girl is okay as he awaits updated information. (The little girl appeared to be unharmed but it has not yet been confirmed.)
“I am waiting for some updated information. It appeared from the video that she was pulled out, everybody was okay, but I certainly hope she is okay. That’s first and foremost,” he said.
This article originally appeared on PEOPLE.