
Photo: (c) garywwilson, some rights reserved (CC BY) · CC BY 4.0
Eumetopias jubatus
Diet
Pollock, mackerel, salmon, cod, octopus, squid, bivalves, gastropods, and occasional smaller seals
Habitat
Cold North Pacific coastal waters, outer continental shelf, rookeries, and haul-outs
Range
North Pacific coasts from California and Alaska to Russia and Japan
Litter size
1 pup
Size
Females 2.3–2.9 m; males 3–3.4 m
Weight
Females up to 350 kg; males up to 1,120 kg
The Steller sea lion is the largest eared seal and displays pronounced sexual dimorphism. Adult males reach 3–3.4 m and may weigh as much as 1,120 kg, while females measure 2.3–2.9 m and weigh up to 350 kg. Mature males develop a conspicuous mane of coarse hair around the neck and shoulders. Adult coloration varies from pale blond to reddish-brown, with a somewhat darker chest and abdomen. Unlike many pinnipeds, its light body coloration remains apparent when the coat is wet. (Animal Diversity Web)
Steller sea lions inhabit cold and subarctic waters of the North Pacific, principally along the coasts and outer continental shelf from California and Alaska to Russia and Japan. They gather socially at coastal rookeries and non-breeding haul-outs, usually in groups of up to twelve but sometimes in much larger assemblies. They can dive to approximately 400 m. Opportunistic hunters, they consume pollock, mackerel, salmon, cod, octopus, squid, bivalves, and gastropods, and occasionally attack smaller seals. Their low-frequency calls sound more like roars than barks. (Animal Diversity Web)