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California Sea Lion

In classic Californian style, these sea lions are known to hang out on beaches, docks, jetties, and in the surf, and males proudly sport a sea-swept tuft of light blonde hair atop their prominent foreheads.

 

The California sea lion is exclusively found along the Pacific coast of North America, from Canada to the coast of central Mexico. They can grow up to 2.3 meters (7.5 feet) long and differ in color and size by sex — females have slender, light tan to tan bodies while males are larger and appear dark brown to black. Sea lions have broad front flippers, long snouts, and distinct ear flaps that “true” seals do not. 

Male California sea lions mate with multiple females and establish breeding territories that they defend aggressively from other males. While this behavior may seem bold, California sea lions become very skittish around humans that invade their breeding grounds and will often flee if they see or smell them. This species is very social and vocal — males are known for the dog-like barking noises they use to communicate. While in the water, California sea lions exhibit a unique behavior known as “rafting” — where they hold their flippers above water while floating motionless — to regulate their body temperature while resting. They also have a very playful and intelligent demeanor and are known to steal fish from the nets or off the hooks of commercial and recreational fishers. They eat a range of prey including squid and schooling fish, like mackerel and sardines.

 

 

Californian sea lions face a variety of threats, such as entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, habitat loss, toxic algal blooms, and boat strikes. Fortunately, it has a stable population, indicated by its status as a species of least concern on the IUCN Red List.

 

 

The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) has helped protect and restore Californian sea lion populations for decades – so it is crucial to ensure the Trump administration doesn’t reverse the vital protections the MMPA has put in place. Join Oceana in speaking out to defend this critical legislation today here. 

 

 

 

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