My blogging buddy Steve Schwartzman did a post on California’s Point Lobos the other day, in which he mentioned a colony of seals on an island in his photo. They were likely California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), and I was reminded of an encounter that I had with South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens, aka Southern or Patagonian sea 
lions) on the coast of the city of Mar del Plata (Sea of Silver) on the coast of Argentina in 2004. Interestingly, the common local name for them is lobos de mar, which translates as sea wolves. This colony was quite used to curious people, and I was able to get with a few yards of this one for a portrait shot without feeling that I was getting too close for comfort.
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krikitarts 
Very striking, Gary. Adrian
I was pretty lucky to catch him striking this pose, all right!
What a portrait. Wonderful!
This old fellow was pretty cool and cooperative. Thanks, Belinda!
Now that’s the kind of closeness and subject’s pose that I wish I’d been able to have with the seals I saw in California. I’m glad you had a success that time.
I was surprised that there was not only no barrier to keep visitors back, but also not even a warning sign, as far as I remember. I felt very fortunate that they were feeling docile.
When I first visited the Mayan ruins at Copán (Honduras) in 1969 there were few barriers and I could largely wander wherever I wanted to take pictures. It’s no longer like that: better for the ruins, worse for the photographer.
I was in Honduras in 2003 and 2005, but missed the Mayan remnants. I did get to Copán during the earlier trip, but work mandates, alas, didn’t allow time for leisurely excursions.
Wonderful image, Gary.
Thanks a lot, M, it was fascinating to be able to get so close to them and still feel pretty comfortable. I know they can move really fast when they want to.
It’s interesting to see the same posture — the raised heads — across species. These guys’ raised heads remind me of grackels. I suppose it’s a strange connection, but there you are. The big fellow in the foreground has such a pensive look in his eye. I’m glad you were able to capture it.
He really does look pensive, and I remember wondering what he thinks about the frequent proximity of too many examples of Homo touristicus. I was glad that he didn’t seem to be bothered by mine.