When the salmon are running in the Vancouver Island rivers the sea lions collect in the esturaries and swim upstream to feed. The sight is one that is unforgettable and the photo opportunities are never ending. California sea lion facts: When diving deep, California sea lions slow their heart rates to allow them to remain underwater for nearly ten minutes before surfacing to breathe. This ability gives them an edge in the pursuit of the fish, squid, and shellfish that make up their primary diet.

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