British Columbia is home to a large number of sea lions. Don’t confuse them with seals. Sea lions have earflaps and long front flippers that help them to walk and even gallop on the land.
You can meet two main types of these animals. The Steller sea lions are the largest of their kind. Males are about 9.84 ft (3 m) long and can weigh more than 1102 lbs (500 kg). California sea lions are slightly smaller. Males are about 7.4 ft (2.25 m) long and weigh over 661,4 lbs (300 kg).
The pups of both kinds are born between mid-May and July. You can watch them on the islands of the Salish sea. Vivian Rocks or Mitlenatch Island near Northern Vancouver Island are also good places to watch sea lions enjoying the warm summer sun.
The pups of both kinds are born between mid-May and July. Although Stellar sea lions breed in British Columbia and California sea lions—mostly in California, you can watch both types of pups on the islands of Salish sea. Vivian Island or Mitlenatch Island near Northern Vancouver Island are also good places to watch sea lions enjoying the warm summer sun.
Practical info
When is the peak season to view sea lion pups in British Columbia?
If you're visiting British Columbia to see the sea lion pups, you should plan to visit between May and July, as they are mostly born during these months. During this period, they rest on coastal areas and islands of British Columbia. Since the sun is warm and pleasant during this time, it's an excellent opportunity to go outside and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Show more
Which areas of British Columbia are the best to observe sea lions with pups?
British Columbia has plenty of great spots for observing sea lions with pups, such as Mitlenatch Island, Vivian Rocks, and the islands of the Salish Sea, located near Northern Vancouver Island. These spots are particularly great because they come ashore to rest and give birth. Observing from a safe distance is critical, so adhere to viewing guidelines. Show more
What distinguishes sea lions from seals?
Sea lions walk on land using their long front flippers and earflaps, which seals lack. However, seals glide through water by pushing with their strong front flippers, which sea lions also have. Sea lions are generally larger than seals, which is why male Steller sea lions, found in British Columbia, can grow over 9.84 feet (3 m) long and weigh over 1102 lbs (500 kg), while California sea lions reach a maximum weight of 661,4 lbs (300 kg). The most common seal in British Columbia is the harbor seal. Show more
How large can male Steller and California sea lions grow in British Columbia?
In British Columbia, Steller sea lion males can weigh over 1102 lbs (500 kg) and grow up to 9.84 feet (3 m) long. Meanwhile, male California sea lions can grow up to 7.4 feet (2.25 m) long and weigh over 661,4 lbs (300 kg). As a general rule, females tend to weigh less than half the weight of males. Show more
What other animals can you find in British Columbia, besides sea lions with pups?
British Columbia boasts a wide array of diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, orcas, grizzly bears, black bears, humpback whales and otters, many of which can be seen year-round. In this western Canadian province, you'll find several national parks, like Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, known for diverse and stunning wildlife views in addition to the natural beauty found throughout the parks. Show more
