The California sea lion is a type of seal that lives in cool waters off the rocky coast of western North America. This marine mammal makes a roaring noise, barks, and honks. Sea lions are marine mammals that have long torpedo shaped bodies covered in short coarse hair. They are often confused with true seals, but there are many distinguishing characteristics that can dispel confusion between these two animals. Sea lions inhabit seacoasts, and are found principally in the higher latitudes of both hemispheres. Sea lions are much hunted for their skins and fur, and also for their oil, which in some species is very abundant. .
The Sea Lion's flippers are much larger than those of the seal, and their hind flippers have the added adaptation of being able to turn forward so that they can be used to aid movement on land. The Californian Sea Lion has a range from the North American Pacific coast: South of Vancouver down to Baja California and the Galapagos Islands. They live on Islands, but they also live on isolated stretches of rocky beach on the mainland. The California sea lion has a thick layer of blubber, short, thick fur that is dark brown to buff-colored, and a dog-like head. Males, called bulls, are darker and bigger than females. Males also have a thick furry mane around the neck. The whiskers help the seal's sense of touch. The nostrils are closed in the resting state. The sea lion has small external ears and a good sense of hearing. It also has keen eyesight but no color vision.
Males are much larger than the females and can reach a length of over 8 feet and weigh 650lbs. Although much smaller in comparison, the females can reach a length of 6.5 feet and weight of 220 pounds. The males are probably the most vocal of all mammals, and let out a loud incessant honking bark to protect over their territories. They are faithful to their territories, and to their harems of up to 15 females.