STELLER SEA LION
Eumetopias jubatus
DESCRIPTION
The Steller Sea Lion is the largest species of sea lion, characterized by its robust body and large head. Males can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and have a distinctive mane of coarse fur, while females are smaller and lack this mane. They are known for their social behavior, often seen in large groups on rocky shores and beaches, and are skilled swimmers, capable of diving to great depths in search of food.
FUN FACTS
- Steller Sea Lions are named after the German naturalist Georg Wilhelm Steller, who first described the species in the 18th century
- They are known for their impressive vocalizations, which can include barks, growls, and roars, making them one of the most vocal pinnipeds.| Unlike many other marine mammals, Steller Sea Lions have a unique ability to dive to depths of over 200 meters in search of food, showcasing their adaptability to various marine environments
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight200-400 kg
Average Length2.4-3.3 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuregroup — they are often found in large colonies, especially during breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer (May-July)
- Habitat
- Steller Sea Lions inhabit coastal areas, particularly rocky shores and islands. They prefer locations with easy access to the ocean for foraging and haul-out sites for resting.
- Biomes
- Marine, Coastal
- Native Range
- They are found along the North Pacific coast, from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska to California.
- Continent
- North America, Asia
- Countries
- United States, Canada, Russia, Japan
- Diet
- Steller Sea Lions primarily feed on fish, squid, and other marine invertebrates. They are opportunistic feeders and will adjust their diet based on the availability of prey.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- fish, squid
- Social Structure
- group — they are often found in large colonies, especially during breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 10-100
- Territorial
- 0
VU
200-400 kg
Weight
2.4-3.3 m
Length
- Coloration
- They have a light brown to golden coloration, with males being darker than females.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are significantly larger than females and have a mane.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 11 months
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer (May-July)
VU
Vulnerable
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Steller Sea Lions has fluctuated, with some areas experiencing declines due to various threats.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-70,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat degradation, entanglement in fishing gear, and competition for food with commercial fisheries. Climate change also poses a risk to their prey availability.
- Predators
- Orcas, great white sharks, and occasionally large terrestrial mammals like bears when on land.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their size and social structure for protection, often forming large groups to deter predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon