The Galápagos Sea Lion (Zalophus wollebaeki): San Cristóbal's Ambassador
San Cristóbal hosts one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. Science and curiosities of this endemic species.
- Scientific name
- Zalophus wollebaeki
- Endemic
- Galápagos (and Isla de la Plata)
- IUCN status
- Endangered
An endemic and endangered species
The Galápagos sea lion breeds only in Galápagos (with a small colony on Ecuador's Isla de la Plata). It is listed as Endangered by the IUCN because its population dropped sharply during strong El Niño events, when warm water reduces the fish they eat. Males can weigh up to about 250 kg and patrol their beach territories while barking loudly.
Curious facts
Pups nurse for one to three years and mothers recognise them by their call and smell among hundreds of others. Young sea lions love to play with snorkelers, spinning and blowing bubbles in front of your mask. Remember the park rule: keep at least 2 metres away and never touch them.