The Galapagos Fur Seal is smaller than the Galapagos Sea Lion, and distinguished by a shorter and pointed nose, thicker fur and a lower and softer "voice." Fur seals were almost wiped out in prior centuries. Severe conservation and protective measures are saving the existing fur seals.
	The Galapagos Sea Lion male is larger than the female, with a raised forehead bump and thicker neck. The female is more streamlined. Seals and sea lions feed underwater on fish, squid and other invertebrates.
	Male sea lions and seals are territorial and will fight to protect their territory and their females. Sea lions will fight each other in shallow water while seals will fight ashore.
	Females live longer than males, and suckle their young for up to three years. Often one female will stay on the beach to watch many youngsters while their mothers are at sea hunting for food. Swimming with seals and sea lions is discouraged. While the seals are curious and may swim close to investigate, male seals and sea lions are aggressive, with sharp teeth.
	With more males than females, sea lions without a female form bachelor herds and wait for the chance to challenge a mated male.
	Seals and sea lions spend a great deal of time sunning and snoozing on the beaches. Like humans, they prefer to take their siesta in the shade.

More Galápagos Islands Photo Gallery

Read about the Galápagos Archipelago and

the Galápagos Islands

Photograph thanks to ArtToday.com

Descriptions and help from:

• Ecuador and its Galapagos Islands
  by David L. Pearson and Les Beletsky
• Galapagos Islands Born of Fire
  by Tui De Roy