Vancouver sea lion’s first snowfall
Posted December 2, 2022 5:37 pm.
Last Updated December 2, 2022 7:24 pm.
As the snow wreaked havoc around Metro Vancouver Tuesday, some locals were able to take a moment to enjoy the flurries.
The Vancouver Aquarium has released footage of Natoa, a Steller sea lion, experiencing his first snowfall.
Natoa was born this summer at the aquarium in Stanley Park, and appeared to be a bit bamboozled by the falling snow.
While perched on a rock in the water, the video shows the animal trying to catch the flakes with his mouth.
The sea lion has grown up in captivity so far, but the mammals are usually accustomed to colder climes and to snow.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Steller sea lion is the largest member of the Otariidae family, which also includes fur seals.
They are found in Alaska and along the West Coast.
Males can weigh up to 2,500 lbs and grow to 11 feet, while females can be as large as 800 lbs and 9.5 feet.
They typically live 20 to 30 years, the NOAA says.
