South American Sea Lion

South American Sea Lions
Photographer: Reinhard Jahn


South American Sea Lions
Female and her Pup
Photographer: Carlos Ponte


South American Sea Lion Range Map (S America)
South American Sea Lion Range Map
(S America)
Latin Name Otaria flavescens
Conservation Status Least Concern
Location Coastal Areas of S America
Colour Brown
Length 1.8 - 2.8 m (5.9 - 9.2 ft)
Weight 140 - 350 Kgs (310 - 770 lbs)
Life Expectancy

Up to 20 Yrs (Wild)
Up to 30 Yrs (in Captivity)

Main Characteristics

South American Sea Lions have a body length between 1.8 and 2.8 m (5.9 - 9.2 ft) and they weigh between 140 and 350 kgs (310 - 770 lbs). Males are around 2 - 3 times the size of females.

Males are dark brown in colour with a paler coloured underside and they have a full mane. Females are pale brown with some pale markings around their head.

Habitat

South American Sea Lions can be found along the coast lines of South America.

Diet

South American Sea Lions mainly feed on a variety of fish, squid and octopus. They will also feed on young south american fur seals and sea birds, such as penguins.

Breeding

After a gestation period of 11 months, South American Sea Lions give birth to a single pup. They are weaned at 6 - 12 months old. Females reach sexual maturity at 3 - 4 years of age and males at around 6 years old. Both sexes reach their full adult size at around 8 years of age.

Predators

Predators of South American Sea Lions include sharks, killer whales and mountain lions.

Subspecies

South American Sea Lions have no subspecies

Interesting Facts

South American Sea Lions are also known as:
Southern Sea Lion

Similar Animals

New Zealand Sea Lion
Steller Sea Lion
Galapagos Sea Lion
Japanese Sea Lion
California Sea Lion
Australian Sea Lion

 


Contact         About         Glossary         Site Map         Privacy Policy

CC 2006 - 2014 theanimalfiles.com