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Sea Lion (California)

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Zalophus californicus
Sea Lion (California)

Range

They are found in the coastal water and beaches of British Columbia, Canada down to Mexico.

Habitat

They live in the ocean and on sandy and rocky beaches on the mainland and islands.

Body Traits

They are about 6 - 7 feet long and weigh up to 600 pounds. Males are larger than the females. They are called “eared” seals because they have ears you can see (unlike seals, who don't).

Habits

They gather into colonies on land and rafts (groups) in the ocean. They are very playful and can swim up to 25mph.

Diet

They eat fish, squid and octopus.

Predators

Predators that eat them are sharks and killer whales. They also are killed by accident in fishing nets.

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School subscriptions can access more than 175 downloadable unit bundles in our store for free (a value of $1,500).

District subscriptions provide huge group discounts for their schools. Email for a quote: sheri@exploringnature.org.

Reproduction

Males are territorial and collect a group of females called a “harem.” Females are pregnant (gestation) for 11 months and have 1 pup.

Lifespan and/or Conservation Status

They can live 15 - 20 years in the wild. They are listed as Lower Risk - least concern.

Sea Lion (California)
Sea Lion (California)

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Suborder: Caniformia
Family: Otariidae
Genus: Zalophus
Species: Zalophus californianus

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