A California sea lion shoots above the ocean's surface. Suddenly there is another, and then a third one racing through the water. The sea lions are speeding toward one of their favorite places to dive for clams. Then things get scary. A gigantic great white shark bursts out of the water. The sea lions' hunting trip has just turned into a race for their lives! Young readers will explore the underwater world of these beautiful marine mammals through clear text, full-color photos, and diagrams. Age-appropriate activities, such as researching how California sea lions compare to other pinnipeds, give readers a chance to make observations and to develop animal-science skills.
On Sea Lion's first birthday, he leaves his rookery in the Channel Islands to make the long journey to San Francisco Harbor, during which he becomes entangled in a net and must be rescued by workers from the Marine Mammal Center.
The California sea lion can swim at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. Its speed helps it escape from predators such as sharks and killer whales. Sea lions are not just fast; they’re also smart and playful. They can even learn to perform tricks at zoos and aquariums! These are some of the fascinating facts kids will discover as they learn all about these swift marine mammals. Eye-popping photos and clear, easy-to-read text will engage emergent readers as they discover the anatomical features that help California sea lions reach fast speeds. A "Speed-o-Meter" graphic compares the sea lion’s top speed to that of other animals.