California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) display marked sexual dimorphism: males weigh between 300 and 380 kg and reach about 2.4 m in length, while females weigh only 80 to 120 kg and measure between 1.8 and 2 m. Adult males have a pronounced sagittal crest, which gives them a distinctive appearance and aids in territorial and mating battles.

They have a streamlined body with a layer of blubber beneath the skin that provides warmth and buoyancy. In addition to this blubber, they can regulate their temperature using their flippers, which can cool down or warm up to help maintain body temperature. Their coat is a chocolate-brown color. Their large eyes help them adapt to low-light conditions in underwater environments, while their whiskers enhance their sense of touch, allowing them to detect movements and vibrations in the water—essential for hunting in murky or dimly lit conditions.

Their nostrils close automatically upon entering the water, preventing water from entering and enabling them to dive with ease. Their long fore flippers can rotate outward for better movement on land and provide powerful propulsion in the water, where they spend most of their time. These adaptations allow them to move with agility both in the ocean and on land.

They can dive to depths of up to 200 meters and remain submerged for around 20 minutes, thanks to their ability to store oxygen in their muscles and slow their heart rate during dives. This ability enables them to explore a wide range of underwater habitats and access diverse food sources.

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California sea lions are known for their intelligence and learning ability, which allows them to perform tricks and follow commands in captivity. This skill has been used in zoo and aquarium shows as well as in scientific research on animal behavior and cognition. They are often seen in harbors and marinas, where they have learned to interact with humans and seek food, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and opportunism.

Different subspecies of sea lions exist in various regions, each adapted to specific local conditions. These adaptations may include variations in body size, coat color, and reproductive behavior, enabling them to thrive in a wide range of marine environments.

In the wild, sea lions can live between 15 and 20 years, while in captivity they can reach up to 30 years due to the absence of predators and constant food availability. Their main predators are orcas and great white sharks, which pose a significant threat, especially to young and inexperienced individuals. Pups can also be vulnerable to birds of prey and other marine mammals.

The ability of sea lions to learn and remember complex tasks has been documented in several studies, and they have been shown to use tools and solve problems, suggesting a high level of intelligence. In some cases, sea lions have been observed using cooperative hunting techniques, where multiple individuals work together to corral and capture prey, increasing their efficiency and success in obtaining food.

In addition to their role in the marine ecosystem, sea lions have also been used in animal-assisted therapy programs due to their friendly nature and ability to interact positively with humans. Their presence in coastal ecosystems also significantly impacts fishing communities, as they compete for the same resources and, in some cases, may cause conflicts with local fishermen.