Back to Mammals                                 

California Sea Lion
Scientific Name: Zalophus californianus

California sea lions are extremely social animals, known for their playfulness and curiosity. Often mistakenly referred to as "seals," these animals live in large groups in the wild and are found primarily on the western coast of North America from the Baja peninsula of Mexico up to British Columbia in Canada.

Light to chocolate brown in color, adult male California sea lions can weigh in at 440-880lbs, with an average length of 6.5-8 feet. At maturity, males also develop pronounced, tufted foreheads, called "sagittal crests." Females are generally much more petite, with an average weight of 110-240lbs and a length of 5-6.5 feet.

Fun Facts:
  • Some early Spanish explorers to California called these animals "lobos marinos"-or "sea wolves"-because of their tendency to bark and roar.
  • California sea lions can swim as fast of 13.5mph and have been known to dive to depths of several hundred feet. They can hold their breath for up to 10 minutes.
  • Unlike their cousins, the Harbor seals, California sea lions use their oversized front flippers to propel themselves through the water. They steer with their smaller hind flippers.
  • Because of their intelligence and maneuverability, California sea lions can easily walk on land and are often seen performing in zoos and aquariums.
Back to Mammals