Aquatic Locomotion of a Sea Lion

Sea lions generate thrust, or forward propulsion, by bringing their fore-flippers together in big sweeping motions called “claps.”  When a sea lion “claps,” it stretches its flippers out to the sides and sweeps them down. Then it tucks its flippe
(Illustration by Gabby Wharton)

Sea lions generate thrust, or forward propulsion, by bringing their fore-flippers together in big sweeping motions called “claps.”  When a sea lion “claps,” it stretches its flippers out to the sides and sweeps them down. Then it tucks its flippers against its body, forming a torpedo shape that glides easily through the water.