Steller sea lion records in California follow the Pacific coast rather than inland landmarks. Rocky haul-outs and productive nearshore water are the meaningful setting, with reports representing the southern part of a range centered farther north along the Pacific.
The record curve rises steeply in June and reaches its high point in July before easing in late summer. That timing can reflect seasonal coastal movements, breeding activity, and heavier summer observation from boats and shore. Reports occur in every month, but they don’t show that equal numbers of sea lions use California waters throughout the year.
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