FAQ About Ocean Life

Seals and sea lions are both marine mammals that belong to the pinniped group, but they have some notable differences in their physical characteristics and behavior. Here are some distinctions between seals and sea lions:

• Physical Appearance: Sea lions have visible external ear flaps, while seals have small ear openings without external flaps. This is one of the easiest ways to visually distinguish between the two. Seals generally have a more streamlined body shape, while sea lions have a stockier build.
• Locomotion on Land: Sea lions have large, strong front flippers that they use to support their weight and walk on land using all four flippers. Seals, on the other hand, have shorter, weaker front flippers and typically move on land by wriggling and sliding on their bellies.
• Behavior: Sea lions are generally more social and gregarious than seals. Sea lions are known to form large colonies and often gather together on beaches or rocky outcrops. Seals tend to be more solitary and spend more time in the water, although they may haul out in groups on land during specific times, such as breeding seasons.
• Habitat: Seals are better adapted to colder environments and are commonly found in polar and temperate regions. They often inhabit pack ice, rocky coasts, and subarctic areas. Sea lions prefer warmer climates and are more commonly found in subtropical and tropical regions.
• Hunting Techniques: Seals are generally more specialized for hunting in the water and have streamlined bodies that allow them to be efficient swimmers. They primarily rely on their swimming and diving abilities to catch prey. Sea lions, with their powerful flippers and maneuverability on land, are more versatile in capturing prey both in the water and on land.