Zalophus wollebaeki

Galápagos Sea Lion

1.5–2.5 metriä
15–24 vuotta
Erittäin uhanalainen
Tietoa

Galápagos Sea Lion

The Galápagos sea lion is one of the most charismatic and playful marine mammals in the world. Endemic to the Galápagos Islands, these curious pinnipeds are famous for their bold, puppy-like interactions with snorkellers and divers. Juveniles in particular are endlessly playful, blowing bubbles, spinning, and mimicking divers' movements. Adults bask on beaches, boat docks, and park benches throughout the archipelago, seemingly unfazed by human presence — a testament to the islands' unique lack of natural land predators.

Koko

1.5–2.5 metriä

Paino

50–250 kg (koiraat significantly larger)

Elinikä

15–24 vuotta

Suojelutila

Erittäin uhanalainen

Missä niitä löytää

Parhaat sukelluskohteet

GalápagossaaretSan Cristóbal IslandEspañola IslandSanta Fe IslandIsabela Island

Sukellusvinkit

Galápagos sea lions are incredibly curious and will often approach divers and snorkellers on their own. Let them come to you — never chase or grab them. Juveniles are the most playful and may spend extended time mimicking your movements. Bull males can be territorial, especially during breeding season — give large males space and watch for aggressive posturing.

Paras kausi

Year-round; pup season (August–November) offers the most playful interactions

Elinympäristö

Rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, and shallow coastal waters throughout the Galápagos archipelago. Colonies are found on nearly every island.

Ravinto

Sardines, mackerel, squid, and other small fish. They can dive to 200 metres but typically forage in shallower waters.
Tiesitkö?

Hauskoja faktoja

1

They are endemic to the Galápagos and are the smallest sea lion species

2

Pups can swim within weeks of birth and form 'nursery groups' watched over by a few adult females

3

Dominant bulls defend territories of up to 40 metres of coastline during breeding season

4

They can hold their breath for up to 10 minutes and dive to depths of over 200 metres

Aloita seikkailusi

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