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Sea
Lion: The Galapagos sea lion is one of three subspecies of the
Californian sea lion (Zalophus californianus) species. It is found
in the Galapagos Archipelago where it is one of the most
conspicuous and numerous marine mammals. Well adapted to its
semi-aquatic lifestyle, it has a streamlined body and powerful
fins, and as a member of the eared seals (Otariidae family), which
includes fur seals and sea lions, this aquatic mammal is able to
control its hind flippers independently. This adaptation allows it
more agility on land than seals, which cannot move their hind
limbs independently. Furthermore, unlike the true seals (family
Phocidae), Z. c. wollebaeki swims using its strong and well
developed fore flippers. Adult males are much larger than females
and are brown in colour while females are a lighter tan. Adult
males are also distinguished by their raised foreheads, and the
hair on the crest may be a lighter colour. Juvenile Galapagos sea
lions are chestnut brown in colour and measure around 75 cm at
birth.
Fur Seal: The Galapagos Fur Seal is the
smallest of the Southern Fur Seal reaching a length of up to 5
feet at maturity. Their coats of dark gray brown to dusky black
nearly lead these animals to extinction, as hunters targeted them.
Pups are born with a smooth and silky skin to which fur develops
around 6 months of age. This made them prime targets for hunters
back in the 18th century. These animals have survived from the
brink of extinction, are the shiest creatures in the archipelago.
Their numbers now compare in numbers with the sea lions. During
the day they hide from the hot equatorial sun in shelves or caves
of the rocky lava cliffs of the western islands. At night they
feed on squid and fish avoiding the sharks, which are their
natural predator.
Dolphins:
There are three
species of dolphins that live around the islands.
The most frequently seen are the bottle-nosed dolphins,
which are often spotted in front of or around boats. Less commonly
seen are spinner and common dolphins. Arguably the best
known sea mammals, dolphins hold a special place in our hearts. In
the Galapagos, the most commonly seen species are bottle-nosed
dophin (Tursiops truncatus) and common dolphin (Delphinus delphis)
Whales: The sperm whales around
the Galapagos were almost hunted to extinction by whalers in the
18th century, and as a result are rarely seen even today. Some
pods are occasionally seen in the northern and western waters, and
individuals are sometimes spotted in the narrow channel between
Fernandina and Isabela. Humpback, sei, minke, finback, pilot and
killer whales are also occasionally seen.
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Mammals