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| Stellar sea lions resting on a buoy in Lynn Canal. Steller sea lions have large, bulging eyes, and flat, square noses. They also have long whiskers used to navigate underwater and find prey. The ears of a Steller sea lion are visible and are turned downwards. Steller sea lions gather on haulouts, such as this buoy, and rookeries (safe places beaches where young are born and raised) and will travel great distances (up to 250 miles) to find food. As adult males age, they develop a “mane” of long, coarse hair and this is probably why they are called “lions,” that and their vibrating roar. Steller sea lions are particularly agile on land and are the largest member of the “eared” seal family. Differences between Stellar sea lions and Harbor seals are: Stellar sea lions are able to support themselves on their front flippers and “walk,” seals can’t; Harbor seals move like inchworms on land; Sea lions are noisy and territorial in their breeding ground; and, Harbor seals rarely vocalize and are shy. |
| Total images: 23 | Last update: 9/16/08 2:53 PM | Help |