Californian Sea Lion Zalophus californianus

There are six separate species of Sea Lion. Sea lions have ears, unlike true seals. The Californian Sea Lion shown here is native to coasts from southern Alaska to Mexico.

Males are much larger than females, with higher foreheads, thicker necks and usually darker. They can reach some 8 feet (2.5 metres) long.

They are intelligent and are the species most used in sealion performance/shows to do tricks (above row at Loro Parque, Tenerife) and some naval training. Captivity can be quite boring.