Sea lions in the Sea of Cortez

A whisker length away from this California sea lion (Zalophus californianus). This scene was only a fraction of what Mother Nature unveiled for our guests today. The California sea lion is just one of the mammals that represents the pinniped order in the kingdom Animalia. The other members of this order include the “earless” seals and the walrus. California sea lions gracefully glide and fly through the water column with the use of forelimbs which have been modified into powerful flippers. The hind limbs are used for stabilization as well as a rudder, and allow for supple movements of the body which are almost unimaginable. Even the most comfortable swimmers and snorklers can’t help but feel awkward in the presence of these ballet dancers of the pelagic realm. The dog and bear are the closest terrestrial relative and this shot bears fact to this evolutionary diversion.

However, all this action occurred after lunch. As an appetizer some of us were treated to a wonderful display of geologic formations at eye level traveling by kayak at Ensenada Grande while others enjoyed hikes up the meandering arroyo. In the late afternoon, we toured Los Islotes by Zodiac to experience the scene of the sea lion colony from above water. Who knows what tomorrow may bring?