Pinnipeds are a diverse group of marine mammals that include seals, sea lions, and walruses. In British Columbia (BC), Canada, you can find various species of pinnipeds along its extensive coastline. Here are some of the pinnipeds commonly found in the waters of BC:

1. Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina):

The harbour seal is the most common and widely distributed seal species in BC. They are found in coastal waters, estuaries, and even in some freshwater rivers and lakes for short periods of time. Harbor seals are small, with a distinctive V-shaped nostril. They are known for their curious and often inquisitive behaviour, frequently seen lounging on rocky shores and floating on their backs.

2. Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris):

While less common in BC than some other species, the northern elephant seal can be spotted along the northern coast and on a conservation area near Victoria in Southern Vancouver Island. These large seals are known for their large proboscis (nose) and their spectacular annual migrations between their breeding and foraging grounds.

3. California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus):

California sea lions are frequently observed in the waters of BC. These sea lions are known for their agility and playfulness in the water. They often gather on docks, buoys, and rocky outcrops, basking in the sun. They are also the most well-known for their sounds, as they have a very distinct barking sound.

4. Steller Sea Lion (Eumetopias jubatus):

Steller sea lions are the largest of the sea lion species and are found along the coasts of BC, particularly in the northern and western regions. Their size and distinctive golden fur distinguish them from other sea lions. Steller sea lions are known for their deep, booming vocalizations and impressive haul-out sites.

BC's extensive coastline, with its diverse habitats and rich marine life, provides ample opportunities for observing and studying pinnipeds and other marine mammals. These animals are an integral part of the region's ecosystem and are highly valued for their ecological significance and their contribution to the cultural and recreational aspects of BC's coastal communities. We were lucky enough to see two of these species on our adventure today while we searched for the whales: Harbour Seals and Steller Sea Lions!

Unlike the whales who are constantly on the move, the Pinnipeds can be much easier to find, as the haul-out areas that they spend time on don’t change much over time. Sea Lions are seasonal, migrating between their breeding grounds and their wintering grounds each year. The Steller Sea Lions that we saw today go north to their breeding grounds in the summer, leaving only a few behind every year.

The Harbour seals on the other hand are always in our waters, breeding, birthing, and thriving in the Salish Sea year-round. It makes it nice on days that we aren’t lucky with the whales that there can still be breaks for viewing these interesting other species. Such was the case today, since as hard as we searched, we couldn’t find any whales. All the guests onboard still got to see some of the wildlife of the Salish Sea, and they will get to try for whales again sometime for free with the use of their “no-whale” vouchers!

Please enjoy all the photos of the Seals and Sea Lions that were taken today by Marine Naturalists Des Poier and Vanessa Vereschahen.