Otariinae

Otariinae is a subfamily of the Otariidae family, comprising the eared seals commonly known as sea lions. Members possess external ear flaps, elongated bodies, and large forelimbs used for propulsion in water and on land. They can rotate their hind limbs forward, enabling comparatively agile locomotion on terrestrial surfaces, a trait that distinguishes them from true seals (Phocidae). Otariinae species inhabit temperate and subpolar coastal waters in both hemispheres, often returning to beaches, islands, or cliff ledges to breed.

Taxonomy in Otariinae includes several extant genera: Otaria (the South American sea lion, Otaria byronia), Eumetopias (the Steller sea lion, Eumetopias jubatus), Zalophus (the California sea lion, Z. californianus, and the Galápagos sea lion, Z. wollebaeki), Neophoca (the Australian sea lion, Neophoca cinerea), and Phocarctos (the New Zealand sea lion, Phocarctos hookeri). These are distinct from the fur seals, which are placed in the separate subfamily Arctocephalinae.

Ecology and behavior within Otariinae centers on seasonal rookeries where males defend territories and harems while females give birth to a single pup each year and nurse for several months. They are effective divers and foragers, feeding primarily on fish and cephalopods, with foraging ranges from coastal zones to offshore waters. Vocalizations and specific body postures at breeding sites play roles in communication and courtship.

Conservation status varies by species and region. Otariinae populations face threats from bycatch in fisheries, habitat disturbance, climate change, and pollution. Some species are of conservation concern in certain areas, prompting protective measures, management programs, and protected areas to aid recovery.