These little sea lions are made by Wild
Republic, Russ Berrie and the sea lion on the right is part of
Dakin's Wyland Collection. The grey sea lion was called Waves
and was a Luv Pet. Both this one and the Dakin sea lion 
have been retired. The Wild Republic
sea lion is still in our Gift
Shop.
Sea Lions are members of the Otariidae
Family (Eared Seals). The California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus)
is a large animal (average 6'7") that lives along the Pacific
Coast from Vancouver to Baja California. The large males weigh
anywhere from 450 to 850 pounds. The females are smaller weighing
anywhere from 100 to 230 pounds.
California Sea Lions breed in the summer
months from June to July. Their one offspring is born one year
later. They live on islands, especially liking sandy or rocky
beaches. These are the trained seals seen in many zoos, circuses
and oceanariums. They are very fast, swimming up to 25 mph. They
can descend to 450 feet and remain underwater for about 20 minutes.
They use sonar for underwater navigation and also for finding
their prey, which includes squid, octopus, abalone, and a variety
of fish. They generally hunt at night.
California Sea Lions have lived as long
as 23 years in captivity.
The Sea Lion's enemies include sharks,
killer whales and man. The California Sea Lion is fully protected
by law in the United States and Canada.
Order:
Pinnipedia | Family: Otariidae | Genus/Species:
Zalophus californianus
