California Sea Lion

California Sea Lion

Zalophus californianus

Least Concern
DESCRIPTION

The California sea lion is an intelligent, playful, and vocal pinniped known for its distinctive barking sound. This sexually dimorphic species features males that are significantly larger with a thick neck and a prominent sagittal crest, while females are typically lighter in color. They are opportunistic feeders found along the coastlines of western North America, preying mainly on fish and cephalopods.

Max Length 2.4 m
Max Weight 390 kg
Lifespan 19 - 25 years
Habitat Seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, and open water
Depth Range Up to 536 m
Diet
Carnivore
Activity
Variable
Social Behavior Aggregative
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot California Sea Lion

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely