At Pybus Point Lodge, we're proud to serve as much more than just a fishing outlet, offering all-inclusive Alaska trips of a lifetime. While fishing for numerous top fish in Alaska is indeed one of our top themes offered in numerous different programs, we also offer a variety of other fun pursuits -- and many people find their greatest anticipation comes within various sea and wildlife tours we offer.
One such tour that many of our guests look forward to with each visit, including many of our younger guests: Our guided tours to see seals and sea lions, which many kids who visit Alaska have never seen before in-person. These tours often serve not only as great fun, but also as fantastic educational experiences for young people to learn more about new creatures on our planet. With this in mind, here are a few simple facts and details about sea lions (the rarer of these two for most kids) that you can pass on to your kids during any such adventure.
Swimming and Breathing
When seeing sea lions for the first time, kids will often ask about how they swim and breathe. Sea lions are strong, powerful swimmers who can reach up to 20 miles per hour in the water. They can hold their breath for up to six minutes, which is why they are often seen diving down to hunt for fish.
However, sea lions cannot breathe underwater, which is why they must come up to the surface to breathe. They can do this quickly, often taking only a few seconds to catch a breath. They breathe through their nostrils, which are naturally closed during most of their activities -- but then open up when they need to take in air.
Lifespan
The average lifespan for sea lions in the wild is typically about 20 years, but it can be closer to 30 years for sea lions in human care. This difference is because sea lions in the wild face many dangers, such as being killed by sharks or becoming entangled in fishing nets.
Pups
Sea lion pups, or young, are born with a thick coat of fur, which helps them to keep warm in the cold water. They weigh about 22 pounds at birth and can swim and dive right away. Their mothers nurse them for about six months, after which the pups will start to learn how to hunt and feed themselves.
Sea Lions vs. Seals
The main difference between sea lions and seals is that sea lions have external ears, while seals do not. Sea lions also have a visible mane of fur around their neck, which seals do not. Finally, sea lions are typically larger than seals.
For more on sea lions and seals, or to learn about any of our wildlife tours or Alaskan fishing adventures, speak to the staff at Pybus Point Lodge today.
