Answer. Related Questions. If you can tell the sea lions apart, you’ve reached expert level in seal identification. All of us enjoy watching, and listening, to them also. What is the difference between a harbor seal and a sea lion? They have spotted coats in a variety of shades from white or silver-gray to dark brown. Seals lack an external ear flap whereas sea lions have an external ear flap that is visible. They usually have a streamlined barrel shape and four flippers at the end of each limb. Thank you for writing a review about your experience here! Seals vs. Sea Lions. The quiet behavior and camouflage coloration can make them easy to miss. We were pulling teeth to age some stranded animals as part of our collaborative work with the Whale Museum and San Juan County Marine Mammal Stranding Network and were once again amazed at how large Steller sea lions are. Seals, like the gray seal and harbor seal, typically have shorter flippers than their sea lion … [Download a PDF file about the differences between harbor seals and sea lions] While seals and sea lions have much in common, there are many notable differences: The average weight of a male harbor seal is about 300 pounds and they are about 6 feet long, while a male California sea lion weighs on average 700-800 pounds and is 7-8 feet long. Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are the quiet marine mammals resting on near shore rocks along the Point Lobos shoreline. Sea lions and fur seals (members of the eared seal family) have visible ear flaps, while true seals only have ear holes. Sea lions have external ears and seals do not. Seals, sea lions, and walruses are all in the order Carnivora and suborder Pinnipedia, thus they are called “pinnipeds.” Pinnipeds are mammals that are well-adapted for swimming. Looking at the photos of sea lions vs. fur seals, can you find any other ways to tell them apart? We're glad you found our seal docks in the harbor! California Sea Lions and Harbor Seals use the docks we set out for them for resting. Harbor Seals. When comparing a sea lion vs. seal you can spot the difference a few ways, one of which is the lack or presence of an ear. Check out this shot comparing lower canines of an adult harbor seal and a Steller sea lion! Many people confuse seals and sea lions as they share many similarities. In addition, sea lions have a loud bark and walk on their large rear flippers versus seals more wriggle on their belly and have smaller rear flippers. Wiki User May 18, 2012 1:30AM . Put your skills to the test and come visit the seals and sea lions at the Aquarium! 3. They are both members of the order Pinnipedia, which means “feather footed.” Pinnipeds have a substantial system of nerves in their upper lips and use thick whiskers called vibrissae to find food.