Wild grey seal holds diver's hand

A wild, male grey seal "holding hands" with researcher and cameraman Ben Burville (@Sealdiver) off the North East coast of the UK.

"When at 200kg wild seal holds your hand a gives it a gentle squeeze in response to your grip, time stands still and for that time you are completely absorbed in the moment"

Ben has been observing grey seals underwater for over 20 years and has probably spent more time underwater with grey seals than anyone in the world. He holds a Visiting Researcher position at Newcastle University exploring underwater seal behaviour and White Beaked dolphin (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) off the Northumberland coast. Ben has worked with the BBC, ITV, Sky and other production companies.