Of all the pinnipeds, the California sea lion is the most agile and skillful on a solid surface. A sea lion can stay underwater for nearly 15 minutes. When it dives, the California sea lion's heart rate slows down so its body needs less oxygen.
Sea lions use their powerful front and rear flippers for swimming.
Their large hind limbs can be turned forward so all four limbs can be used for traveling on land. A thick layer of blubber provides insulation and buoyancy in the water and protects the sea lion from sand and rocks on shore. Click here for more sea lion facts.