Zalophus wollebaeki, also known as the Galapagos sea lion, is a species of eared seal found in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It is a highly social animal, often congregating in large groups, and plays an important role in the Galapagos Islands ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Zalophus wollebaeki is a relatively small sea lion, with males reaching up to 2.4 meters (8 feet) in length and weighing up to 295 kilograms (650 pounds). Females are smaller, averaging about 1.8 meters (6 feet) in length and weighing up to 110 kilograms (240 pounds). They have a distinctive dark brown to black coat with a lighter underside. Their flippers are relatively long and powerful, allowing them to swim with great agility. They also have a short, thick neck and a prominent muzzle.
Habitat and Occurrence
Zalophus wollebaeki is endemic to the Galapagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago located in the eastern Pacific Ocean. They are primarily found in the coastal waters of the islands, with their range extending from the western edge of the archipelago to the eastern edge, particularly around volcanic rocks and sandy beaches. They inhabit the neritic zone, the shallow waters close to the shore, and the oceanic zone, the open ocean. This makes them a common sight in these marine zones, often seen basking on the rocks or swimming in the clear waters.
Taxonomy
Zalophus wollebaeki belongs to the Order Carnivora, a diverse group of mammals characterized by their meat-eating diet, including the infamous bears, cats, and dogs. It is part of the Family Otariidae, which encompasses all the eared seals, characterized by external ear flaps and their ability to walk on land. The species was described in 1953 by American zoologist Remington Kellogg.
Feeding
Zalophus wollebaeki is a carnivorous animal, primarily feeding on fish, squid, and octopus. Their diet varies depending on the availability of prey, with some individuals specializing in specific types of fish or squid. They are opportunistic hunters, using their powerful flippers and sharp teeth to catch their prey. They can dive to depths of up to 100 meters (330 feet) in search of food, spending up to 10 minutes underwater before surfacing for air.
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