01. Photographer pick: Marcel Rudi
Sea lions communicate using a variety of vocalizations, including barks, roars, and growls. These sounds are important for establishing territory, attracting mates, and communicating with their young. Photo by Marcel Rudi.
Marcel is a wildlife photographer who takes many up-close and personal photos of sea animals, often in light-hearted ways. His work can be found at https://instagram.com/marcelorudi.
02. Article pick: Sea lions are biting people. They’re sick from toxic algae, officials say
Sea lions are highly social animals and often form large colonies, with some colonies numbering in the thousands. Photo by Sand Crain, Unsplash
This article reveals a recent phenomenon of sea lions dying and acting aggressively towards people is due to an algae bloom that is poisoning animals along the California coast. Toxic algae at the bottom of the food chain is getting eaten, leading to animals such as sea lions and dolphins to become sick. Sea lions appear to be the hardest species hit, with hundreds of sea lions having died from seizures, brain damage, dehydration and muscle spasms. The sickness is also making them act erratically, as there are reports of them biting humans, out of character for the normally mild-mannered mammal. Currently, beach goers are recommended to stay 50 feet away from sea lions and scientists hope the toxins won't spread to other parts of the Pacific Ocean.
03. Book pick: The Pinnipeds: Seals, Sea Lions, and Walruses
In this book, author Marianne Riedman goes in-depth on the adaptation, evolution, classification, distribution, ecology, behavior, communication and learning of seals, sea lions and walruses. It is considered the best and truest informational book on these beautiful creatures.
04. Video pick: Sea Lion: The Grizzly Bear Of The Sea
This video by YouTuber Animalogic discusses the biology and ecology of sea lions, in a likable and cheery narrative. It is full of information, and a lot of first-hand videography of the host traveling to see sea lions. This is a fantastic video for anyone who wants to learn about sea lions.
05. Quote of the Week
"A sea lion is like a dog that's been raised by sea otters."
— Craig Ferguson