Arctocephalus galapagoensis
Identification.
Smaller than the sea lion, thicker double-layer fur coat (black when wet, goldish when dry), larger bulging eyes, ears that visibly stick out.
Galápagos context.
Endangered, with El Nino events the primary threat through food-supply crashes and high pup mortality.
Encounter context.
Prefers shaded rocky coastlines and is notably shyer than the sea lion. Dives much longer than sea lions, especially at night, with dive duration tied to moon phase - longer on dark, new-moon nights.
Seasonality.
Present year-round.