On a much larger scale, Robert is also studying a large, sea lion-like pinniped (Allodesmus) in the Burke’s collection. These large-bodied creatures lived 23 to 15 million years ago and were comparable to the size of modern Steller sea lions. They were deep-diving seals—hence their enormous eye sockets—and are extinct today.

“The second specimen I’m studying is a partial skeleton from Grays Harbor, Washington, of the genus Allodesmus,” he said.

Article Source: Burke Museum