Sea Lions

Abstract

Adapted for water Sea lions have many adaptations that help them survive in the ocean. Their bodies have been streamlined like a torpedo and their limbs have been dramatically modified. The winglike pectoral flippers contain the sea lion’s arm bones as well as the finger bones, which have been elongated. These flippers provide the force that propels the animal through the water. The hind flippers are used for steering. Seal lions are mammals Sea lions are mammals just like humans and have the same basic mammal traits that include: 1) Warm-blooded: Sea lions maintain a constant body temperature. 2) Possess hair: Sea lions also have blubber, a layer of fat under the skin, to keep them warm. 3) Nurse their young: They have fat-rich milk, which enables their young to gain weight quickly. 4) Breathe air: Sea lions nostrils remain closed and they voluntarily open them to breathe. 5) Give live birth: Sea lions have not become as completely aquatic as whales and give birth on shore. Teeth for tearing Sea lions don’t chew their food. Instead, they grab their meal and then either swallow it whole or rip and tear it into pieces before they eat it. They will dine on fish such as herring and anchovies or squid.