PREFACE 



The purpose of this circular is to present brief descriptions, 

 drawings, and photographs to assist in identifying the seals, sea-lions, 

 walrus, and sea otter of the Pacific from Mexico to Point Barrow and 

 the Hawaiian Islands. For each of twelve species the physical charac- 

 teristics, range, and habits are summarized to provide a convenient 

 source of life-history information. Some sources of information are 

 given on page 30 for those who are interested in learning about these 

 mammals in greater detail. The diagnostic features are summarized 

 in key form on pages 31-33. Where the length of an animal is given, 

 reference is made to a straight line from the tip of the nose to the tip 

 of the tail flesh, not to the tip of the hindflippers. 



Many details of anatomy, feeding habits, migration, and reproduc- 

 tion are still unknown. They offer an interesting field of research to 

 those who have an opportunity to observe or collect marine mammals. 



Published information has been drawn on freely. In addition, in- 

 formation and cooperation have been generously extended by: Frank G, 

 Ashbrook, Dr. I. McT. Cowan, Philip A. DuMont, Francis H. Fay, 

 Dr. Raymond Gilmore, Dr. Carl L„ Hubbs, Johnson A. Neff, Ford 

 Wilke, and the San Diego Zoological Society. 



Most of the information in this circular was included in Wildlife 

 Leaflet 344, issued in February 1953. The supply of that leaflet was 

 soon exhausted; because of many requests for the information, it is 

 reissued as a circular to provide wider distribution. This revision 

 includes corrections and six additional pinnipeds foimd in the North 

 Pacific area. Although the title implies that these animals are to be 

 found along the Pacific Coast, one species, the monk seal, occurs only 

 in Hawaiian Territorial waters. 



