Well fitted to this seafaring existence is the shape of the body, 

 which tapers from the middle toward each end, and the flippers, so 

 unwieldy for walking, perform the best possible service as a pro- 

 pelling and guiding force. 



Like all their kind they are gregarious, especially during the 

 breeding season, when more time is spent on shore than at any other 

 period, but with none of the accompanying disorder characteristic 

 of the sea-lions. The young, usually but one in number, is covered at 

 birth with a thick, yellowish wool, which is soon replaced by the 

 ordinary hair, and it is then ready to take to the water. It still re- 

 mains, however, with its parents, who show great solicitude for their 

 offspring and do not hesitate, if need be, to sacrifice their lives for 

 its preservation. 



While somewhat migratory with change of season, the name 

 '"harbor" denotes that they are not fond of the deep sea, but pre- 

 fer to remain alongshore, frequently swimming far up into the 



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