Sea Lions

It took a little research and observation for me to figure out the difference between seals and sea lions in the Puget Sound. I can easily spot them now. Where we boat, we find seals are super friendly. They will swim up to our boat and beg for food. The sea lions just hang out sunbathing on various objects in the Sound. They keep to themselves, except for being very vocal, ensuring that we know we are invading their territory.

Sea lions have larger flippers and use them to seemingly walk when on the beach. They also have little ears, while the seals have tiny holes on the side of their head. Seals have a streamlined body so that nothing hinders them from gliding through the water. I much prefer the personality of the seals but the mass and strength of the sea lion is impressive.