Animal Profiles
Mammals

Sea Lion

Otariidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Sea lions are marine mammals with visible ear flaps and powerful front flippers. This account follows the California sea lion, which feeds in eastern North Pacific waters and rests ashore in groups.

California sea lion (Zalophus californianus), the representative described in this account, photographed at Monterey.

California sea lion (Zalophus californianus), the representative described in this account, photographed at Monterey.

(c) Jonathan Eisen, some rights reserved (CC BY) · CC BY

At a glance

Location
The California sea lion, Zalophus californianus, is the representative described here. It ranges along western North America from southeast Alaska to central Mexico. Sandy beaches, rocky coves, docks and buoys serve as places to rest, while feeding takes place at sea.
Habitat
Coast
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Fish such as anchovies, sardines and rockfish share the menu with squid and other prey.

Classification

Common name
Sea Lion
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Otariidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Carnivora
Family
Otariidae
Source classification
Mammalia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • California sea lions have visible ear flaps.
  • Males are larger and darker than adult females.
  • Mothers and pups recognise one another's calls.

Habitat and range

The California sea lion, Zalophus californianus, is the representative described here. It ranges along western North America from southeast Alaska to central Mexico. Sandy beaches, rocky coves, docks and buoys serve as places to rest, while feeding takes place at sea.

Appearance and adaptations

Broad front flippers and visible ear flaps distinguish these animals from true seals. Adult males are robust and generally dark brown, with a pronounced forehead crest. Females are smaller and usually tan to blonde.

Diet and behaviour

Fish such as anchovies, sardines and rockfish share the menu with squid and other prey. California sea lions gather socially on land and in the water. Breeding males defend territories, while individual calls and scent help mothers find their own pups.

Sources

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