Australian Sea Lions Facts & Finds
The Australian Sea Lion is one of the rarest seal species in the world. They are found only in Australia, they are playful, intelligent, and fascinating to watch in their natural habitat. Whether you’re spotting them on the coast of Western Australia or during an unforgettable killer whale expedition, these marine mammals never fail to impress.
Where Can I See Sea Lions in Perth?
You can see Sea Lions in Perth at Carnac Island, a short boat trip from Fremantle. This island is home to a colony of male sea lions that haul out on the sandy beaches. They are often spotted lounging in the sun or playing in the shallows.
Another great spot is Seal Island, near Rockingham, where sea lions can sometimes be seen resting on the rocky shoreline.
Where Can I See Sea Lions in Western Australia?
Western Australia offers incredible locations to see Australian Sea Lions in the wild. Some of the best spots include:
- Jurien Bay – A top destination for swimming and snorkeling with sea lions.
- Abrolhos Islands – Home to colonies of sea lions, often seen basking on the beaches.
- Bremer Canyon – Glasse Island – During killer whale expeditions, sea lions are frequently seen on Glasse Island, an important resting site for these marine mammals.
A sea lion on Glasse Island Bremer Bay
Where Are Sea Lions Found?
Sea Lions live only along Australia’s southern and western coasts. Major populations thrive in Western Australia and South Australia, while smaller groups inhabit Victoria and Tasmania. They choose rocky islands, sandy beaches, and remote coastal areas to breed and rest safely.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, hunters targeted Australian Sea Lions for their fur, oil, and meat. Early European settlers and whalers valued them as a key resource. Fortunately, authorities have banned hunting, allowing their numbers to recover slowly. However, they still face threats like habitat destruction, fishing nets, and climate change.
Australian Sea Lions are found in Western AustraliaYes! In fact, Australian Sea Lions are naturally curious and often approach swimmers and boats. Moreover, they are known for their playful nature, especially juveniles, who enjoy interacting with humans in the water. However, despite their friendly behaviour, they are still wild animals, so it’s important that you observe them from a respectful distance.
What Do These Sea Lions Eat?
Australian Sea Lions are skilled hunters, feeding on a variety of marine creatures, including:
- Fish such as whiting and herring
- Squid and octopus
- Crustaceans like crabs and prawns
They are deep divers, sometimes reaching depths of 100 metres in search of food. Their strong jaws and sharp teeth help them catch and eat their prey efficiently.
Australian Sea Lions are an endangered speciesHow Can We Protect Australian Sea Lions?
Despite ongoing conservation efforts, Australian Sea Lions continue to face serious threats. However, we can take action to help protect them:
- Avoid disturbing them – Always keep a safe distance when observing them in the wild to prevent unnecessary stress.
- Reduce plastic waste – Plastic pollution harms sea lions and other marine life, so disposing of waste responsibly makes a big difference.
- Support marine conservation programs – These organisations actively protect sea lion habitats and monitor their populations.
See Australian Sea Lions on a Killer Whale Expedition!
For an unforgettable wildlife experience, join a killer whale expedition to Bremer Canyon, where you may spot Australian Sea Lions resting on Glasse Island. These fascinating animals share the waters with orcas, dolphins, and seabirds, creating a breathtaking encounter with Western Australia’s marine life.
Are you ready to see Australian Sea Lions in the wild? Join us on a Bremer Canyon killer whale expedition today! 🚤🐳
Join a Killer Whale Expedition with Naturaliste Charters
