Impact Productions

Underwater Underdogs

Stories of human communities on the front line of climate change are increasingly common but what about wildlife? Last year British Divers Marine Life Rescue attended a record 1500+ call outs for marine animals in distress. A large number of these were animals overwhelmed by storms of unprecedented ferocity. Over 90% of the call outs concerned seals, with the UK being a critical breeding site for the grey seal, the BDMLR's work provides a vital conservation purpose. We meet Dan Jarvis at BDMLR's HQ in Cornwall. BDMLR provides a 24-hour call out service for marine mammals, as well as training and coordinating more than 1000 volunteers. Dan and ex-teacher Sue Sayer, Director of the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, explains how the seal breeding season and pups are becoming disrupted by these radical new weather patterns. At the Cornish Seal Sanctuary Georgina Shannon, the centre manager introduces us to a rehabilitated seal' and we follow its release. Staff and visitors have become attached to the seal and its mischievous nature. We see footage of previous rescues of seals, including a dramatic cliff rescue. The release of the seal is a magical, emotional moment for all. Our seal story makes climate change a tangible reality for animals and humans alike.

05:51 | 2020

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