……objective science for conservation…….

The Pacific WildLife Foundation is a non-profit coastal and marine research and education society  that inspires an appreciation for objective scientific research and conservation of the ocean. We conduct original research, develop novel education programs, and inspire an appreciation for conservation of the ocean. 

California Sea Lion Zalophus californianus

California Sea Lion Conservation

The California sea lion was hunted for centuries and bounties were paid out in Washington, Oregon and California. Estimates in 2001 put the California sea lion population at about 175,000 animals (Reeves et al. 2002). The Japanese sea lion is presumed to be extirpated.  Sea lions are protected throughout their USA range, except for Japan (Wilson and Ruff 1999). There is controversy in the United States over plans to kill sea lions eating endangered salmon and trout stocks in coastal Washington, Oregon and California. Viewing guidelines are available on how to reduce disturbance to sea lions and other marine mammals.