|
Steller sea lions can get pretty big.
On average, full-grown male Steller sea lions (bulls) are about the size
of a Volkswagen Beetle. Sometimes they can even get up to the
size of a minivan! Females (cows) are smaller. They're about
the size of a decked-out Harley.
Steller sea lions are often confused
with California sea lions, but the Stellers are bigger and
have lighter fur. California sea lions make a distinctive barking
noise, whereas Steller sea lions grunt and roar.
Steller sea lions like to eat certain types of fish, like herring and salmon, as well as octopus and squid. In turn, the sea lions are eaten by sharks and killer whales.
Male Steller sea lions have it tough – compared
to females, they are 3 times more likely to die when they are
young and they usually don’t live as long. Those who
survive still have to fight each other for territory and mates.
But to the long-suffering victor
goes the spoils: a bevy of beauties for their very own harem...at
least, until the girls wander off. Female sea lions show no
loyalty to their mates, so males have to carefully watch over
their harems to make sure the females don’t slip away until after they've mated.
When bulls are guarding their mates and pups, they don’t
even eat. Female sea lions only give birth to one pup every
2-3 years, so every pup is precious.
|
