Mirounga angustirostris
Northern elephant seals are the largest seals in the Northern Hemisphere, with males reaching up to 2,300 kg. They are named for the male's large, inflatable nose that resembles an elephant's trunk. These incredible divers spend most of their lives at sea, coming ashore only to breed and molt.
Length
2.5-4.5 m
Weight
400-2,300 kg
Open ocean for most of the year. Breed on sandy beaches in California and Mexico. Occasionally seen in BC waters during migrations.
Deep-water fish, squid, octopus, and rays. Hunt primarily at night when their prey migrates to shallower depths.
Spend 80% of their lives underwater. Can dive to 1,500 meters and hold their breath for up to 2 hours. Males are highly aggressive during breeding season.
Marine Mammal
Phoca vitulina
Harbour seals are the most common marine mammal in BC waters and can be found year-round along the coast. These curious animals are often seen "hauled out" on rocks, beaches, and docks, basking in the sun. Their spotted coat pattern is unique to each individual, like a fingerprint.
Marine Mammal
Eumetopias jubatus
Steller sea lions are the largest of all sea lions and the fourth largest pinniped in the world. Named after naturalist Georg Wilhelm Steller who first described them in 1741, these impressive animals can be seen year-round on BC's rocky coastlines and are often heard before they're seen due to their loud, distinctive roars.