Class: MammaliaA Name from George Wilhelm Steller
Steller
sea lions get the name from German naturalist George Wilhelm Steller
who first studied these animal back in 1742. Steller sea lions are the
largest members of the Otarriid (eared seals) family. Males
can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, about twice larger than the females.
Steller sea lions also have a lighter tan color than other sea lions
species.
Reproduction
Steller
sea lions gather in rookeries during Springtime. Males arrive in May to
announce territory, while females follow and form a "harem". A pup is
born and weigh about 45 pounds. Pups remain with their mother for about one year, but often gather in groups with other pups.
Conservation
The
Western stock of Steller sea lions was listed as endangered under the
Endangered Species Act while the remaining populations have been listed
as threatened.
Animal Info
Steller sea lions can be seen at the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration.