Free Divers or Scuba Divers: What Impact Do We Have on Wildlife?

A team of diving videographers and freedivers set out in search of the monk seal in Greek waters. This quest, which might have seemed ordinary, radically transformed their perspective on interactions with the animal world, highlighting many concerns.

The quest for the seals

The first day of filming begins with the search for the seals. The team sets off almost blindly, following the indications of fishermen who had encountered these animals on an islet the previous day. They imagine their potential refuges in caves or coves, taking into account the winds and currents. Relying on their instincts and betting on a bit of luck, that’s what filming with marine life is all about. It’s both a game of hide-and-seek and poker. The team projects themselves as pinnipeds, thinking about what a seal might do at that moment. They begin thinking like them, in pursuit of their prey, attentive to any signs of hunting. Every floating tree trunk transforms into a seal relaxing in the sun. With their fins, they imagine the encounter at each underwater shadow. But so far, no seal in sight.

Rediscovering the pleasure of waiting

A bit frustrated, but not disappointed, the team enjoys this exploration, away from their daily routine. Interaction with wildlife is a privilege that requires patience. In a world where the internet has invaded our lives, we have forgotten the true meaning of the word « search. » We have lost our ability to invest in waiting, aspiring to have everything instantly. Reconnecting with this quest recenters us on our environment: we are not masters of nature, it ignores our desires. Days pass, and despite the failures, the smell of a cave occupied by seals becomes apparent. It’s a matter of timing…

An unexpected encounter

A few days later, the long-awaited moment arrives! A young seal and its mother rest in a cave. Thanks to the camera systems installed in these cavities, they are located. The mother, cautious, allows her intrigued young to venture outside under her watchful eye. The advice of their guide illuminates the timidity of these large Phocids. Although curious, they remain very cautious. With videographers using rebreathers and a team of freedivers, the observation is carried out silently, from a distance. Four people in the water, without bubbles, without noise. They patiently wait for the duo to wake to consider an immersion.

Fortune smiles: the young seal and its mother cooperate, but the ten-meter safety distance is respected during their aquatic dance. After half an hour of rehearsals, the duo drifts away, likely more in search of food than tired of their presence. Seals have an impressive appetite; they have to consume up to 8% of their body weight daily. With an adult weight that can reach 300 kg, hunting is a necessity. Furthermore, the swell increases, making their makeshift shelter less safe. The team members watch them leave, hoping to cross paths again the next day…