This
page contains photos of the Galapagos Sea Lion. The Galapagos has
two species of eared seals, both endemic to the islands. One is
the Galapagos fur seal and the other is an offshoot of the California
Sea Lion. Eared seals are characterised by external ear pinnae,
by their ability to rotate their hind flippers under their pelvic
girdle, and by their long, flipper like front limbs. Eared seals
can gallop - even out running a person on rocky terrain. Males establish
territories, usually a stretch of coastline, which they savagely
defend. Bulls can do serious injury to snorkelers who get to close
to them or their territory. But the females and pups are a delight
to swim with, doing somersaults underwater and playing with you.
Fur seals are nocturnal and are less often seen then sea lions
because they prefer rockier, steeper and more rugged shores with
plenty of shade. They are the smallest species if their kind. Their
coat is much thicker and denser than the sea lion's and they were
hunted almost to extinction for their luxurious pelts. They are
now protected and making a comeback.
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Sea Lions Greet us before we embark on the
Polaris
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Guarding His Territory
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Playful Pups
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You Make a Nice Pillow
(Note Marine Iguana heading to the water)
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So Peaceful!
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A Nice View from Up Here
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Sea Lion Baby Nursery
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Where's My Momma?
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New Born Baby
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A Safe Place to Wait for Mother
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Nursing Baby
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A Mother's Love
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Nap Time
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Sharing the Beach
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Sharing the Hiking Trail
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Nursing Sea Lion Pup
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They Don't Care That We Are Near
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Sea Lion and Marine Iguana
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Sea Lion Watches us Coming Ashore
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Bull Sea Lion Defends his Territory
Note His Harem on the Shore
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Fur Seals Under Ledge
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