First record of a neonate California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) in Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico

Abstract

We present the first report of a neonate California sea lion near Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico, about 900 km
from the southernmost breeding colonies recognized for the species. The sighting occurred June 25th, 2011, and during
the 2 following days, in La Boquita beach. Near the site of the sighting, sea surface temperature (SST) was recorded.
SST values were some of the lowest recorded in the region (21-24° C), similar to the ones typically recorded in feeding
areas in the southern Gulf of California in winter (~20.9° C). California sea lion females give birth in summer and stay
close to their colonies where they feed their young during approximately one year. Thus, their feeding areas tend to
be confined within a radius of about 30 km from their colonies. This close relationship between breeding and feeding
make extralimital births important; the increasing knowledge regarding travel patterns of individuals may provide
better ways to analyze the species status and its future conservation.