They are one of the most fascinating animals that inhabit the coasts of a large part of the American continent. The sea lions They inhabit the oceans and move in groups from the subarctic and can even be found in Puerto Vallarta.
The sea lions They are not only a symbol of Mar del Plata with their enormous and historical sculptures on the Rambla. These are mammals considered to be the funniest, agile in the water and adorable in appearance.
For now, it must be reported that the sea lions They are from the family Otariidae. Along with seals, they make up this group, although they are larger and have long front flippers, the ability to walk on all fours, and short, thick fur.
The species It is characterized by being very sociable and usually live in a community. There are many tourist places where they can be seen in large groups, both on land and at sea. Its color varies from grayish white to almost black.
Although there are different varieties, most of these animals can weigh between 90 and 180 kilos and measure from 1.82 meters in length to one ton in weight and three meters in length. The males are bigger.
To swim they use their long and powerful front and rear fins that allow them to navigate the seas and thus reach speeds close to 32 kilometers per hour. With the front wings they generate thrust and with the rear ones they drive.
Breathing and other secrets
One of the mysteries related to the sea lions is whether they can breathe underwater. The truth is that no, although they are able to hold their breath for an unusual time: between 8 and 20 minutes.
Although they have lungs and need oxygen to live, they have special physiological constructions that allow them to conserve oxygen while diving. On land, sea lions breathe through their noses, but their nostrils instinctively close underwater.