Fantastic Flippers - California sea lions are marine mammals with limbs that are modified as flippers. When swimming, sea lions are propelled by their large front flippers while the rear flippers act like rudders that help steer. Flippers enable sea lions to swim long distances and dive deep to find food. Sea lions are also adapted for movement on land! Amazingly they can rotate their rear flippers forward for improved mobility on land.
Speedy Swimmers - Sea lions have streamlined bodies that enable them to swim at speeds of 25-30 miles per hour. A layer of blubber under the skin helps provide warmth and buoyancy. Their nostrils and ears close when diving under water. When submerged for long periods (5-10 minutes) a sea lion will decrease its heart beat to reduce the amount of oxygen needed.
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