California sea lions are among the most commonly exhibited marine mammals in zoos and aquariums, with their welfare depending on water quality, social management, and the transition away from performance-based interactions.
Sea lions in well-managed modern facilities with high water quality, appropriate social groups, and positive reinforcement training can demonstrate reasonable welfare. However, facilities with poor water quality cause chronic eye irritation and skin infections. Sea lions used extensively in performance shows where tricks are performed primarily for human entertainment rather than for husbandry benefit face a different welfare equation. The trend away from anthropomorphic performances toward behavioral demonstrations that educate about natural sea lion biology represents a genuine improvement. The most significant welfare concerns arise in older, underfunded facilities where infrastructure, water management, and husbandry practices lag behind modern standards.