You’ll know you’re getting close to the sea lions in our care by the energy in the air. Sea lions are extremely social — and vocal! They often cluster in large groups of tens to hundreds of sea lions when hauled out on shorelines, piers, or jetties. In water, they form smaller groups called “rafts.” Their long front flippers are perfectly suited for swimming. On land, sea lions tuck their hind flippers beneath their body and use all four flippers to “walk” around.

Sea lions and seals are often confused, but here’s a clue you won’t forget. Sea lions have visible ear flaps — seals have only holes. Listen to the chorus of sea lion calls sea lion and you’ll easily remember it’s the ears that set them apart.