Eared Seals PNG Images Transparent Background

Eared seals are a group of marine mammals that are also known as otariids. They are called eared seals because they have small external ear flaps, unlike true seals that don’t have them. There are 18 species of eared seals which are divided into two subfamilies: the sea lions and the fur seals.

Sea lions

Sea lions are larger and more robust than fur seals. They are recognizable for their dog-like head and loud roar. Sea lions are known for their agility on land as they can move quickly by using all four limbs to crawl and walk. The males are usually twice the size of females and have a distinctive thick mane that extends from their neck to their shoulders.

The species in this subfamily include the California sea lion, Steller sea lion, Australian sea lion, South American sea lion, New Zealand sea lion, and Galapagos sea lion. Sea lions are commonly found in the coastal areas of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Fur seals

Fur seals are smaller and more graceful than sea lions. They have pointed snouts and are known for their ability to dive to great depths when hunting for food. They are excellent swimmers and can travel long distances to find prey. The male fur seals are larger than females, but they do not have manes like sea lions. They usually have a thick coat of fur that protects them from cold water and the elements.

This subfamily includes the northern fur seal, southern fur seal, subantarctic fur seal, and the New Zealand fur seal. Fur seals are widely distributed throughout the Pacific and southern Atlantic oceans. They inhabit rocky coastlines and islands where they breed and give birth to their pups.

Conservation status

Most species of eared seals are not endangered, but some populations are threatened by habitat loss, overfishing, and climate change. The Steller sea lion, for example, has experienced a significant decline in its population over the years due to hunting and fishing activities and is considered a vulnerable species. Similarly, the New Zealand sea lion is classified as endangered due to the decreasing number of breeding individuals.

Conservation efforts are essential to ensuring the recovery and survival of eared seal populations worldwide. Scientists and conservationists are working together to protect their habitats, reduce pollution, and regulate fishing and hunting activities to minimize the impact on these magnificent marine mammals.