One of the first animals to greet you on arrival in Galápagos is the sea lion. There is a population of around 50,000, so they are a common sight on most islands. They are so well adapted to humans you can often find them lying around the local beach or pier near town. In fact, on San Cristobal they have prime location of their own beach right in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno where you can see rows of them huddled together keeping warm and soaking up the sun. Ahh, the good life!
In Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, there is often a few hanging around the fish market honking at everyone and eating the discarded scraps. I think they like to put in a display for the tourists! On the main pier you will seeing them climbing on the jetties or panga boats, but quite often they like to come all the way up and lie on the benches for a snooze. They will literally honk at you to move if you are sitting on their favourite bench. Whilst this can be very funny and allows close interactions with them, be warned they are not as cute as they look! You must remember that the wildlife effectively has right of way, so keep at least 2 metres away at all times. This can be difficult especially at busy times when people are coming and going from boats. The sea lions, especially the males can get very aggressive and will honk at you to get out of their way and I have even seen them bite tourists that get too close!
As fun as it is to see the sea lions close to town, it is even better to view them in their natural environment. One of the few marine mammals to be found in the Galápagos, they prefer sandy beaches and coves, but are often found out at sea looking for fish. The Galápagos Sea Lion is the largest animal found in the archipelago. The male or bull sea lion is easily distinguishable from the female by its larger size and distinctive bump on the head. They have well defined territories, especially during mating season, although this varies from island to island, it is usually from June to September. Pups arrive annually, with one pup per mother. They grow quickly on the rich diet of their mother’s milk and by 5 months they are fishing for themselves. Pups are curious and lively, frequently to be seen playing in shallow waters amongst human visitors and showing no fear. Swimming with young sea lions is one of the most fun experiences you can have in the Galápagos!
Best Places to view: On the coastline of all the islands
