The California sea lion (Zalophus californianus), one of seven species of sea lions, is a coastal eared seal native to western North America. Faster than any other sea lion or seal in the world, it can dive to depths of 900 feet, and can stay underwater for nearly ten minutes without breathing by slowing its heart rate. Its natural habitat ranges from southeast Alaska to central Mexico, including the Gulf of California. California sea lion males bark like dogs to communicate with other males and females. Females and pups communicate using vocalizations that are unique to the female and pup – meaning a female can locate her pup among hundreds of others. These sea lions are an intelligent and social species, travelling in groups of 12 or more, and hang out on man-made structures such as piers and jetties. The species of sea lion are: California Sea Lion, Steller Sea Lion, Australian Sea Lion, Galapagos Sea Lion, New Zealand Sea Lion, South American Sea Lion, Japanese Sea Lion.
