The evolutionary origins of seals, sea lions and walruses is still unsettled science. Historical taxonomic studies suggest two potential lines of ancestry which include the Ursids (bears) and the Mustelids (otters, minks, ferrets…). While molecular and fossil evidence now appear to implicate an otter-like ancestor, some continue to cling to the “bear hypothesis.”

California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus) — California Sea Lion *(Zalophus californianus)*

Collectively belonging to the Clade Pinnipedia, pinnipeds are carnivorous, fin-footed semiaquatic mammals. With the exception of the Baikal seal (Pusa sibrica), pinnipeds are marine mammals divided into three distinct groups. The Otariidae or true eared seals, possess ear flaps and a flexible hind flipper that allows for semi-coordinated movement on land. Familiar examples include the California sea lion, Zalophus californianus, who’s tendency to bark and play make them a favorite of zoos and marine parks. While significantly larger than sea lions, the Odobenidae have a similar body morphology, but are distinguished by their enormous hairless bodies and pronounced tusk-like canines. Commonly known as walruses, only one extant species remains. Sadly, their long-term viability is now threatened by the rapidly changing arctic climate. The significantly smaller Phocids, lack external ear flaps and have inflexible hind fins. Far more cumbersome on land than their sea lion brethren, “true-seals” are more aqua dynamic with their stubby clawed forelimbs and torpedo-like body.

Harbor Seal  (Phoca vitulina) — Harbor Seal *(Phoca vitulina)*

Otter and Seal... a study in comparative morphology

All Images were Made with a Nikon D7200 and Nikon 200-400mm f4.0 VR1 Lens

Earlier today a group of last year's graduates showed up in my classroom to discuss the start of their college careers. All three are now biology majors at the same institution, and I couldn't help but feel a bit of nostalgia for the life I once lived. I wanted to wax poetic and share stories from my glory days, but chose instead to internalize my exploits as I probed for information about college life in the modern era. Now 32 years removed from my own freshman year, I can't help but wonder how I got to where I am today. First a researcher and now a public school educator, at age 50 it's hard not to think about the many missed opportunities and false starts.

Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) - Moss Landing State Beach, CA — Snowy Egret (*Egretta thula*) - Moss Landing State Beach, CA

There was a time when I dreamed of pursuing an academic career in field ecology, and while I played the role in college and graduate school, I discovered that the world of deep academia was not for me. Alternatively, I could also see myself working in the field behind a camera and lens. In the 1980's nature photography was a specialized discipline; it was a meld of science, photographic arts and business. However, it didn't take long for me to realize that I lacked the skill, patience and risk tolerance required to be an entrepreneur, I feared that a career in photography was as unlikely as one at a university.

In the end, teaching found me rather than the other way around. The career was a safe choice at the time, and was intended it to be a stop-gap until I "figured it out," or sequestered the dollars needed to ride out a PhD program. Twenty-three years later, this accidental teacher has embraced the mentor role and has found pleasure in an unexpected vocation where every day is different and peoples' lives are impacted. There is no doubt that I still dream about the past and wonder what the present could have been, but this life is one that I live with no regrets.

Philosophically yours...

Did You Know (45)?

No Excuses... No Regrets

Powered by Squarespace