Discover the amazing and fearless wildlife that you can see on a fascinating visit to the Galapagos Islands.
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South America
Sea Lions
Even those who have seen pictures of the Galapagos Islands before visiting will not be prepared for the huge numbers of sealions on almost every beach but the more shy fur seal is less commonly spotted.
Visitors may also be lucky enough to spot whales and dolphins around the islands if the time of year is right. Whale species usually seen between July and October include Bryde's whales, pilot whale, minke whale, blue whale and Cuvier's whale. The most commonly seen bottlenose dolphins love to follow your vessel and delight onlookers with their playful displays.
Related to the Californian family species there is an abundance of sea lions throughout the whole Galapagos, parading in large colonies on the rocks and coastlines on all the islands. Differentiated from seals by their external ears and method of moving on land, Galapagos sea lions are irresistible to look at but the larger males in particular must be treated with appropriate respect, especially in the mating season between May and January or when the female is nursing her pups. The beaches are patrolled by the males which will protect female groups of 30 and over. You will be able to differentiate from the female sea lions as the former have domed foreheads, are much larger in size and protect their territory of up to 100 sq. metres.
Most often seen basking in the sun on rocks or sand after a hard fishing session, sea lions are totally different creatures in the water. Transformed from awkward land animals into graceful, agile swimmers, sea lions, especially the females, will playfully swim with you as you snorkel in their midst as well as surfing large waves and love to surface repeatedly around your dinghy.
Where found: They are seen in greatest numbers on South Plaza, Santa Fé, Rábida, James Bay (Santiago island), Espanola, San Cristóbal and Isabela.
Fur seals are distinguishable from sea lions by their ears as well as larger, rounded, moist eyes and pointed noses.
Nearly hunted to extinction by whalers and hunters many survived by hiding under rocks and sheltered areas such as lava cracks.
The fur seal is less commonly spotted due to its nocturnal habits (preferring to hide away in sheltered caves during the day) and is not as gregarious as its larger cousins.
Where found: Most commonly seen today on Santiago island and Puerto Egas.