Playing with Sea Lions

Some people believe divers should not touch or play with sea lions because it changes their natural behavior. I'm sure it does. They have only seen humans underwater for the last 60 years, and we have already become a new playmate for some sea lion colonies.

That should be stopped. But what can you do when an animal nips on your ear? Or steals your snorkel? Or puts its nose on your mask and looks into your eyes?

Of course, humans should not feed sea lions, and in the Sea of Cortez, some staff or people on dayboats do feed them.

Sea of Cortez sea lion colonies seem to be thriving. Thousands of people have obtained a new perspective on these beautiful animals, while wildlife scientists have collected important data during their underwater studies.

Sea lions are intelligent and playful creatures and approach divers directly. But there are some rules you should follow. Don't quickly reach out to touch or pet it. The animal sees that as aggressive and will stay away or become defensive. They are aware of every little move you make. Attract them by getting them interested.

Lorenzo, Valentina's divemaster, taught us how to do that, and it's not a courtship dance. Instead, stay still. Or better yet, lie on a rock or the sand, which indicates you are not aggressive. Then, pick up a rock, maybe sand, or a small object like a snorkel; they'll notice and will likely approach.

Move slowly, especially if reaching toward them. With that approach, be prepared for them to nibble your fingers or hand. They don't usually bite but are surely evaluating you. Some speculate they are tasting you while nibbling. With a careful and slow approach, you may be able to pet and play with them.

But keep in mind these are wild animals. I was bitten rather aggressively twice on this trip. A firm bite on the back of my leg hurt and left a small rip in my suit. The other happened when I was playing with a two-foot-juvenile sea lion in a small cave. Suddenly, a much larger one I didn't see came from behind, grabbed my wetsuit hood, pulled it halfway off, pulling my mask up on top of my head. I'm sure it was an adult, perhaps a protective mom. It was not a playful juvenile.

So, when diving with sea lions, respect them and enjoy them. But remember that you're a clumsy and inept visitor in their world, and anything can happen.

- D.D.