The Californian Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus)
The Californian Sea Lion is a coastal sea lion, found in the northern Pacific Ocean.
Californian Sea Lions are sociable creatures, often sitting together on rocks in large groups or floating together in large numbers. Their streamlined bodies contain a layer of blubber under the skin to keep them warm and help them float. They are most at home in water, where their large front flippers propel them forward and their big eyes help them adjust to low levels of light in underwater environments. Their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers make the Californian Sea Lion one of the fastest aquatic mammals, travelling up to 25 mph under water.
Californian sea lions feed on a wide variety of seafood including fish, shellfish and squid. They usually breed in May / June and the pup is born the following June / August, either on land or in water.
Californian Sea Lions at Chester Zoo
Average weight of adult male: 300 kg
Average weight of adult female: 100 kg
Number of litter: 1
Pregnancy: 12 months
Life span: 15 - 20 years
Sea lions produce loud roars help explain why they're named after lions. Males of some sea lion species even grow thick manes around their necks.
Amazing Animal Fact
Californian Sea Lion's nostrils close instinctively when they hit the water.
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