View source for California sea lion

==Description==
California sea lions are sexually "dimorphic" with males reaching average lengths of 7.5&nbsp;ft (2.25 m) and weighing about 700&nbsp;lbs (315&nbsp;kg). Some large males exceed 1,000&nbsp;lbs (455&nbsp;kg). Females are much smaller, reaching average lengths of 6&nbsp;ft (2 m) and weighing about 240&nbsp;lbs (110&nbsp;kg). They have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.  Their coats are dark brown with females being slightly lighter in color.

California sea lions are social animals and form groups of several hundred individuals onshore. They are fast, agile swimmers and are often seen porpoising and wave riding.  Unlike true seals, they use their large front flippers as their means of propulsion in the water.  The deepest dive ever recorded for a California sea lion is 1,760&nbsp;ft (535 m); the longest dive was 12 minutes.

Males are "polygamous" establishing breeding territories that may include up to fourteen females. They defend their territories with aggressive physical displays and vocalization. Sea lions reach sexual maturity at 4–5 years old. Breeding season lasts from May to August while most pups are born from May through July. Three weeks after giving birth, females are ready to mate again. Pups are weaned at 10 months old.

California sea lions feed mainly in upwelling areas on a variety of prey such as squid anchovies, mackerel, rockfish, and sardines. They also take fish from commercial fishing gear, sport-fishing lines, and at fish passage facilities at dams and rivers.