Swimming Steller sea lion
Vancouver, B.C.
This large male Steller sea lion died in 2005 on a rocky beach near Campbell River, B.C. He was found emaciated and in poor condition and eventually died of pneumonia. His skeleton is unique in that most Steller sea lions have 15 sets of ribs but this individual has a tiny 16th set.
The skeleton has a minimalist internal steel supporting armature highlighting the symmetry and beautify of its bones. You can imagine this animal gliding through the ocean out of a swift and graceful turn as it is suspended above a steep and winding stairwell. It is on display as part of the Aquatic Ecosystem Research Laboratory's Marine Mammal Skeleton Project collection at U.B.C.
Photos (clockwise from top left): skull and hyoid apparatus from left side; front view; thoracic cavity from left side; skull and neck; left flipper;
skeleton from above
skeleton from above
Skeletons > Steller sea lion (swimming)
