Posted by Jason on November 13, 2001 at 03:03:38:
In Reply to: seals vs. sea lions posted by GT on November 13, 2001 at 01:56:52:
Both seals and sea lions come in sizes ranging from large dog to double/triple sized humans.
Sea lions are more prone to playing with divers, particularly the sort of games where they fly at your face at high speed. They are browner and sleeker looking than seals, and they have visible ears.
Harbor seals (unsure about the bigger elephant seals) are a bit shyer and more like flirts. They enjoy sneaking up from behind, and seem more likely to approach lone divers or small groups. Check behind you on your fins. They are shinier, have no external ears. They look like flying blobs - much more rounded in their curves.