Steller Sea Lion (Eumetopias jubatus)
Male and female steller sea lion (photo credit: NOAA Fisheries)
Description: Steller sea lions are the largest sea lions or “eared seals” found in Oregon. Males grow larger than females, measuring up tp 11 feet long and weighing 2,500 lbs. Females are typically about 8 feet long and weight around 800 lbs. Steller sea lions can also be identified by their fur, which is much lighter than their smaller California sea lion relatives. Unlike California sea lions, steller sea lions do no migrate. They spend thier lives hunting and swimming in waters near the rookeries and “haulout” sites that they use to raise young and rest. Females can live for more than 30 years, while males live around 20 years.
Habitat: As a species, steller sea lions range from Northern Japan to Northern Russia in the West Pacific and from Northern Alaska to Central California in the East Pacific. However, steller sea lions are categorized into two groups, the Eastern distinct population segment (DPS) and the Western distinct population segment (DPS) with a boundary near the panhandle of Alaska. Oregon is home to members of the Eastern DPS. Steller sea lions prefer secluded beaches and offshore islands when resting on land.
Diet: Steller sea lions hunt at night, looking for a variety of species of fish, squid, and octopus.
Tide Pool Tidbits:
Steller sea lion (photo credit: NPS)
Steller sea lions can dive up to 1500 feet and stay under water for up to 16 minutes.
The Eastern DPS population was formally listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), but has recovered in recent years and has been delisted. The Western DPS is still listed as endangered.
Steller sea lions molt their coats every year.
Sea lions gather in larger groups called rookeries during breeding season to raise their pups.