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How can you distinguish between two creatures that share the same appearance? Which animal in this photo is a sea lion or a Galapagos fur seal? What distinguishes a sea lion from a Galapagos fur seal? A lot of visitors to the Galapagos Islands mix up the two species: Although the two species have many anatomical characteristics and are classified as pinnipeds, or “fin-like foot,” you may distinguish between a fur seal and a sea lion based on differences in appearance, behavior, and range.
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Diego Zapata
Rosa Mena
Sandy Lara
Diego Zapata
Rosa Mena
Sandy Lara
Compared to sea lions, fur seals have thicker coats and shorter snouts. In contrast to sea lions, who are usually found relaxing on sunny beaches, they also choose rocky coastlines and shady locations. Additionally, most of the Galapagos fur seal populations reside on Isabela and Fernandina islands, although the distribution of Galapagos sea lions is more significant throughout the archipelago’s islands.
Visitors frequently spot these well-known creatures during the Galapagos cruises offered by Yacht Isabela II!
DESCRIPTION: SEA LION OR GALAPAGOS FUR SEAL?
Arctocephalus galapagoensis is the official scientific name for the Galapagos fur seal. Arctocephalus, the genus name for all fur seals, means “bear head” in direct translation, which is a fitting analogy for these shaggy marine mammals. This animal has a short, pointed muzzle resembling that of a bear.
In contrast, sea lions have longer snouts and eyes located further back on their heads.
The two creatures’ sizes differ most noticeably from one another. Despite being the most minor type of sea lion, Galapagos sea lions are significantly bigger than fur seals. Males can weigh up to 200 kg, while females average about 75 kg. The smallest pinnipeds, fur seals, weigh anywhere from 30 to 80 kg.
With the scientific name Zalophus wollebaeki, the Galapagos sea lion is a closer relative of the California sea lion. The family Otariidae, which includes fur seals and sea lions, is known as eared seals, as opposed to “true seals,” which are thought to lack external ears. Notwithstanding this shared characteristic, various genera within the Otariidae family have evolved distinct ear morphologies. This method also serves to distinguish between fur seals and sea lions. The ear flaps of fur seals protrude farther from their heads. In contrast, sea lion ears are closer to the head and have a flatter appearance.
WHAT DISTINGUISHES A SEA LION IN THE PHILIPPINES FROM A FUR SEAL REGARDING BEHAVIOR AND DISTRIBUTION?
The best places for Galapagos fur seals to rest are in the shade, usually near rocky shorelines. Because of this, even if the total populations of the two animals are equal, it is more challenging for tourists visiting the islands to get a look at the smaller fur seals. Moreover, the fur seals exhibit more excellent habitat selectivity, preferring the stony western shores of the Isabela and Fernandina islands.
In contrast, sea lions can be seen around the islands on piers and beaches. See sea lions almost everywhere in the Galapagos Islands; if you’re not careful, you might even walk on one as you disembark at a tiny pier at Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Sea lions feed nearly all day, but fur seals feed at night, which is another significant distinction between the two species. Due to nocturnal eating habits, fur seals are closely linked to moon cycles. According to studies, fur seals eat much more during the new moon than the full moon. This could be because hiding from predators is more straightforward with less light.
Source: bushytrips YT channel
Don’t worry if you must distinguish between sea lions and fur seals. You can follow your Galapagos naturalist guide’s instructions to complete the identification process. The best thing, though? On all of our tours, sea lions will be visible to you. Ensure that your schedule includes the necessary island coverage to increase your chances of spotting the distinctive Galapagos fur seal. This can be done by consulting the Galapagos BIG15 guide.
Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
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Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
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