Steller sea lions gather on South Marble Island. But wait, which way is the wind blowing? From the north or north west it passes over the haul-out and the scent of sea lion envelopes you. You won't find “Essence of Sea Lion” in your favorite perfumery – over ripe fish with faint undertones of sulfur – not much appeal. But you grow use to it, well, you grow tolerant at least – the activity on the haul-out is captivating. It's like watching a party of sorts, sea lions nosing each other, nipping, cavorting, growling and moaning. All words to describe human activities, which really don't apply but, what is going on? Photographer: Tim Rains