California sea lions are known for their intelligence, playfulness and noisy barking. Their fur color ranges from chocolate brown seen in males to a lighter, golden brown seen in females. Another key difference between males and females is that male sea lions are much larger. They have visible ear flaps that are pointed downward so their waters do not fill with water while swimming. Their back flippers can rotate forward for easier movement on land. The front flippers are very powerful and used to propel them when in the water.
They can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour when swimming and can dive nearly 1,000 feet while holding their breath for more than 10 minutes. Sea lions stay warm in the cold ocean water with a thick layer of blubber, that also gives them fat reserves for energy to hunt and migrate. They are opportunistic eaters, feeding on a wide variety of fish and other marine life such as squid.
Sea lions are social animals, often gathering at feeding sites and along rocks to bask in the sun. Groups often rest closely packed together at favorite haul-out sites on land or float together on the ocean's surface in groups called "rafts." They will return each year to large breeding colonies called rookeries in Southern and Central California. A male will fight violently to protect his territory and harem of females.
The Seafood Watch Guides assist consumers in making ocean-friendly seafood selections. This is something we can do, right here in Iowa, to help keep our oceans healthy!
CONNECT to the WILD
Learn more about our conservation efforts through our HOPE for the WILD conservation series. You will have the opportunity to learn from zoo staff, field researchers, and other conservation partners on the importance of working together to save animals in the wild from extinction.