Seals & Sea Lions

Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions about Seals and Sea Lions

1. Why are the animals on the beach?

   The marine mammals that most often come ashore at the Children's Pool beach are Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina) and California Sea Lions (Zalophus californianus). The seals "haul out" on the Children's Pool beach in the Fall, Winter and Spring. They come to the protected beach when offshore rocks are washed by high surf and corresponding high tides. The seals prefer areas of easy entry and exit such as the Children's Pool beach.

2. How can you tell a Harbor Seal from a Sea Lion?

   Sea lions are larger, with longer flippers and are very vocal. Sea lions can support themselves on their two front flippers and actually walk. Sea lions are more territorial and aggressive. Give sea lions a wide berth. Seals are smaller and have a sleeker torpedo type of shape. They move with a rhythmic sliding or shuffling motion, and they don't use their flippers to support their body. Harbor seals are very shy and rarely vocalize.

3. Why do they come ashore?

   These animals need to rest or "haul out" ashore daily. They typically haul out about seven hours a day. They like to use Seal Rock, the rocky island just off the beach to the north, when the tide is low. At higher tides, when Seal Rock and other areas are awash, they move to the Children's Pool beach.

4. Are they dangerous?

   Yes!! Like all wild animals, seals and sea lions are unpredictable and can become aggressive quickly. They have sharp teeth and may bite, particularly if cornered or harrassed.

5. Can I pet them?

   No!! You should stay away from the animals at all times.

6. What laws apply? The Marine Mammal Protection Act makes it a violation of Federal Law to interfere in any way with the natual behavior of the marine mammals. If your actions cause the animals to alter their behavior, you may be found in violation of this law. To report violations, advise the on-duty lifeguard or call the National Marine Fisheries at 1-800-853-1964.

7. Where can I get further information?

   Please avoid unnecessary conversations with the lifeguards. The lifeguards are responsible for watching the swimmers, surfers and divers from Boomer Beach to Hospital Point. This is a large area and requires continual attention. The Library has books on seals and sea lions. Scripps Aquarium Book Store sells books on marine mammals.

8. How can I help?

   In the case of any dead animal sighting, please call (858) 546-7162.