Become a Citizen Scientist
Sea Lion Project Galápagos
The Sea Lion Project Galápagos is a long-term monitoring and research initiative focused on the Galápagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki). It was launched in 2003 on Caamaño Islet—locally known as La Lobería—a small island located just 4 km from Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. Many of the sea lions seen around town are residents of this islet, making it an ideal and accessible site for long-term, individual-based study.
Our Research
Over the past two decades, thousands of sea lions have been individually identified and monitored across their lifespans. During our annual field seasons, we:
- Observe births and maternal behavior
- Mark animals with individual flipper tags to track them throughout life
- Collect data on social interactions, development, and foraging habits
Each flipper tag has a unique number that allows us to track the animal’s age, maternal lineage, and life history. These tags are permanent, lightweight, and do not interfere with the sea lion's movement, whether on land or in the water. Thanks to these tags, we can identify individual animals from a distance and follow their lives over the years.
We also use GPS loggers and dive computers to track movement and foraging behavior. These devices are attached to the animal’s back for only 2–3 weeks, weigh less than 300 grams, and are placed in a way that doesn’t disturb the animal’s natural behavior. At the end of each tracking period they’re safely and carefully removed. They help us understand where sea lions go, how deep and how long they dive, and what environments they use.
However, because these devices collect data for only a short time and only on a small subset of individuals, we have limited knowledge about where sea lions go the rest of the year. That’s where you come in.
Become a Citizen Scientist
Are you in the Galápagos and have you seen a sea lion with flipper tags? Then you can help us track their movements and contribute to wildlife research and conservation. Citizen science reports fill in the blanks left by our short-term tracking equipment and help us understand sea lion behavior across seasons and regions.
Every sighting helps us better understand how sea lions use their habitat, how far they travel, and what challenges they may face in a changing marine environment.
How to Report a Sighting
If you encounter a tagged sea lion, please follow these simple steps:
- Take a clear photo of the tag, making sure the number is visible.
- If a photo isn’t possible, write down the tag number or note that a tagged individual was seen.
- Record the date, time, and location of the sighting. GPS coordinates are ideal, but a detailed description of the location (e.g., beach name, landmarks) also works.
- Email your report to: sealion.tags@gmail.com
- Don’t forget to attach your photos!
In return, we’ll share information about the individual you spotted and their history.
By submitting your sightings, you can help us to protect and better understand one of the Galápagos Islands' most iconic marine species. Whether you're a visitor, guide, local resident, or fellow researcher—your observations matter.
Thank you for being part of the Sea Lion Project Galápagos!