California+Sea+Lion

//Zalophus californianus//
 * __California Sea Lion__**


 * __Common Names__**
 * Galapagos Sea Lion


 * __Physical Description__**

Like other eared seals, California Sea Lions have prominent external ear flaps. They can grow up to 660lbs and up to 8 feet in length. They have pointed muzzles which resembles that of a dog's. "Zalophus californianus" actually translates to "California Big-Head." The Califoria Sea Lion also has a mane but it is less developed than that of the Stellar Sea Lion. This animal can live for up to 15 years and hold it's breath underwater for up to 15 minutes. This sea lion's skin is a purple color. Female California Sea Lions are a lighter colored purple than the males, and the infant sea lions are born dark but get lighter with age. The average lifespan for this animal is about 17 years.
 * __Location__**

Northern coast of Washington to southern coast of Mexico


 * __Habitat__**
 * Man-made objects such as navigational buoys
 * Less than 10 miles off the coast
 * Sandy beaches
 * Intertidal zone


 * __Diet__**
 * Salmon
 * Hake
 * Pacific Whiting
 * Anchovies
 * Herring
 * Schooling Fish
 * Rockfish
 * Lamprey
 * Dogfish
 * Market Squid


 * By Chris**