Mammals Around Las Vegas, Wildlife Around Las Vegas
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General: California Sea Lions (Zalophus californicus) are large eared seals of the North Pacific. Members of the Family Otariidae, the Eared Seals, are distinguished by their external (but small) ear pinnae, and their hind flippers that can be turned forward, which is helpful for walking on land. The Earless Seals (Family Phocidae), such as harbor seals, lack both of these features. California Sea Lion males are larger than females. Females grow to about 6-ft long and weigh up to 200 pounds; males grow to about 8 feet and weight up to 600 pounds. The color is dark brown, almost black when wet. The forehead is high, forming a prominent brow (compare with Steller Sea Lions). Californias are the sea lions that bark incessantly. Taxonomy: Order Carnivora: Carnivores; Family Otariidae, Eared Seals |
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Breeding: Diet: Fish and squid Range: North Pacific from British Columbia to northern Mexico. Range far out to sea, but generally found near rocky coastlines. Comments: California Sea Lions are the species used for entertainment in circuses and zoos. |
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If you were a tasty fish or a little squid, this might be the last face you ever see! |
 California Sea Lion; notice the high forehead (characteristic of this species) and the external ear pinnae (characteristic of this family) |
 California Sea Lion; notice the hind flipper turned forward (characteristic of this taxonomic family) |
 California Sea Lion |
 Notice bite-mark scars on the back |
 California Sea Lions (left) and Harbor Seals (right) |
 California Sea Lion; everyone like a good scratch behind the ear |
 California Sea Lion; this gang sure looks comfortable |
 More to come ... |
Note: All distances, elevations, and other facts are approximate.
; Last updated 231217
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