Diver Gets A Surprise Of A Lifetime When A Seal Pulls On His Hand

Exploring below the ocean's surface, scuba diving offers an experience unlike any other. The sea is full of beauty and mystery and scuba divers get a close-up view of coral, fish, and other sea life every time they go for a dive. One day, two divers had a once in a lifetime experience when seals swam towards them and tried to communicate. Luckily, one of the divers had a camera on-hand to capture the entire encounter. Keep reading and find out what the seals wanted to tell the two divers that day.

Two Friends Went For A Dive At The Isles of Scilly

scuba-seal-encounter-1
YouTube
YouTube

Located off the coast of Cornwall, England lies the Isles of Scilly. The region is known for its incredible natural beauty, including flowers and wildlife. Many of the islands are uninhabited by humans, but seals and rare birds are plentiful.

The islands have the warmest temperatures of the British Isles and offer excellent scuba diving that gives visitors a unique perspective of the islands. Two Englishmen went for a dive one day and returned home with an incredible story to share.

ADVERTISEMENT

Some of the Best Diving in the UK

ADVERTISEMENT
the-isles-of-scilly-647010746
Matt Cardy/Getty Images
Matt Cardy/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

For many divers, especially in the UK, the Isles of Scilly are on the bucket list. This area is a top-ranked destination for diving and is sure to be a memorable experience. An avid scuba diver, Gary Grayson knew he wanted to visit, and brought a friend along for the dive.

ADVERTISEMENT

Reports of shipwrecks, rare rocks and wildlife were just a few of the aspects Grayson could explore around the isles. The area is rich with history, adding to the attraction for divers.

ADVERTISEMENT

Two Atlantic Seals Approached Them

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-4-14646
Andrew Bunday/Flickr
Andrew Bunday/Flickr
ADVERTISEMENT

Along with his friend, Grayson explored the natural beauty below the sea's surface. There were plenty of rare fauna, ancient rock, and fish. And it wasn't long before the locals swam up to check them out!

ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson and his diving partner were amazed as they watched two Atlantic grey seals approach them at the bottom of the sea. Not all seals are friendly, so the duo was cautious as the seals first approached them.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Divers Didn't Want To Appear As A Threat

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-3
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

It's important for divers to be respectful to the animals and the habitat that surrounds them while diving. Grayson and his friend knew this and calmly stayed in place while trying not to appear as a threat to the two seals.

ADVERTISEMENT

Often times, seals can be playful with divers when they encounter them, but other times, they can be aggressive. The two divers filmed and watched as the seals came over to check them out.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Camera Kept Rolling As They Came Up Next To Them

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-6
star5112/Flickr
star5112/Flickr
ADVERTISEMENT

The seals weren't just swimming by for a quick look at the two divers; they swam up with what appeared to be an agenda. The Englishmen kept the camera rolling and tried to remain calm as the seals came within a few feet of them.

ADVERTISEMENT

It was incredible to be this close to the seals, but the divers also hoped that they wouldn't turn aggressive on them, as they were on the seals' home turf.

ADVERTISEMENT

What Was Going To Happen Next?

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-5-50976
Andrew Bunday/Flickr
Andrew Bunday/Flickr
ADVERTISEMENT

The sea is an uncontrolled environment and a lot of unpredictable things can happen while exploring underwater. Grayson was an experienced diver and was able to remain calm while the seals checked them out.

ADVERTISEMENT

But of course, there was a chance that they could be in danger. The two divers needed to listen to their instincts so they could react quickly if the situation took a turn for the worst.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Video Has Tons Of Views

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-8
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson was lucky enough to have his friend with him to record the entire seal encounter. Otherwise, his friends might not have believed him! The divers published the video of their dive on YouTube, where it received millions of views.

ADVERTISEMENT

The close-ups of the seals were just the beginning though. Grayson's friend was able to capture the seal trying to communicate with Grayson. Viewers couldn't believe the seals actually did this!

ADVERTISEMENT

Although Large, The Seals Were Just Pups

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-7
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Once the seals got within close proximity to Grayson and his friend, they could tell that the seals weren't adults, but just young pups. Knowing this, they took extra caution to be still and not frighten the seals.

ADVERTISEMENT

The younger seals usually frighten easily, and Grayson and his friend didn't want to cut this experience short. Luckily, the seals didn't seem afraid of the divers as they approached the two divers.

ADVERTISEMENT

They Turned Out To Be Very Friendly

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-9
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Looking at this screenshot you can see just how close the seals got to Grayson and his friend. The seal pups recognized that the divers weren't a threat to them, and felt comfortable enough to swim right up to them!

ADVERTISEMENT

This seal got right between the two divers and put his face up to Grayson's. As amazed as they were, the divers tried to remain calm so that they could make the experience last. The pups continued to swim around excitedly.

ADVERTISEMENT

Would They Stay Friendly?

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-11-39761
Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The seal pups were friendly when they approached Grayson and his friend, but the two divers had no way of knowing if they would remain that way. They continued to use caution and didn't make any moves to try to get closer to the two seals.

ADVERTISEMENT

Instead, they waited as the seals swam around them, further checking them out. The video they captured is absolutely incredible. Who would think seal pups would be this friendly to two strange divers?

ADVERTISEMENT

It Was Like Playing With Puppies

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-10
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

The seal pups soon revealed themselves to be curious types. The more they encircled and closed in on the divers, the friendlier they seemed to become. The divers were likely relieved and excited to know it was turning out to be a positive encounter.

ADVERTISEMENT

These seals were just like rotund water dogs. They even have adorable puppy-like eyes that lure you in to play. The divers couldn't have predicted what would happen next.

ADVERTISEMENT

They Were in Awe of How Close the Pups Got!

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-12
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson and his diving partner could hardly believe what was happening to them. The seals were in such close proximity, that they were fully immersed in the moment. Seals don't typically open up so fast, as they too practice an immense amount of caution to protect their own safety.

ADVERTISEMENT

But to the divers' shock, the seals swam right up to them as if they wanted to become friends! It was a rare moment that everyone around the world got to witness.

ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson Tried To Play With One Of Them

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-13
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

To the divers' surprise, the seals got so close that they started to interact too! One of the seals started nudging Grayson and it appeared as if he was trying to hold his hands. The seal was holding out his flippers like he wanted Grayson to reach out with his own arms so they could play "Ring Around the Rosie."

ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson did at least shake the seal's flippers as they met face-to-face.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Seal Had Plenty of Playful Energy

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-14
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

After Grayson "shook hands" with his new underwater friend, the seal held onto his arm with its flippers. Because they had never had such a close encounter like this before, Grayson and his buddy just let the seals take the lead.

ADVERTISEMENT

They were unsure of exactly how to approach the situation since most scuba divers aren't avid animal trainers. Instead, Grayson continued to float still while the seal continued to rub its head and neck into his arm.

ADVERTISEMENT

It Was A Unique Experience They'd Never Forget

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-15-80405
Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Usually, when divers go out to sea with the intention of examining wildlife, they must swim for days with a pod of seals in order to gain the animals' trust. Within that amount of time, the seals must determine if the humans pursuing them are safe to approach.

ADVERTISEMENT

This is why Grayson and his diving partner didn't make any sudden movements when they saw the seals. It was odd in the first place that they were being approached so soon.

ADVERTISEMENT

Were They About To Be In Trouble?

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-16
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

A seal getting that close to a human so suddenly is usually seen as a sign of aggression. Thankfully, Grayson and his buddy handled it so well that the seals ended up wanting to play! After nuzzling Grayson's arm, the seal began play-fighting by nibbling at his suit.

ADVERTISEMENT

Meanwhile, the other seal was comfortable enough around the humans to swim around them and mind its business. Perhaps it was looking out for its friend like Grayson's was for him.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Pups Were Curious

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-17
Arterra/UIG via Getty Images
Arterra/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

These seals swam gracefully in the water, which only added to the illusion that they were content in the presence of these humans. Usually on land, they have to waddle around on their flippers and hop onto rocks or boats. But it's underwater where they're truly in their element.

ADVERTISEMENT

After seal pups are born, they spend at least four months with their mother before venturing off. Perhaps these seals had finally left the nest and we're exploring their new world.

ADVERTISEMENT

This Seal Wasn't Scared Of Them

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-18
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

This playful seal pup obviously went against what was expected and swarm right up to Grayson. The creature immediately started sizing the diver up but once it realized Grayson was friendly, it didn't hesitate to see how far things would go.

ADVERTISEMENT

There were clearly no boundaries for this seal. After the seal nibbled a little more at Grayson's suit and kept nuzzling its head against his hand, it ended up making a move no one saw coming!

ADVERTISEMENT

It Was Almost Like Playing With A Dog

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-21
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson realized that the seal must have liked the feeling of being nuzzled. That's when he started scratching the seal's neck and head, just as if he was an actual canine puppy. The seal let Grayson continue to do this for a while.

ADVERTISEMENT

For their part, Grayson and his diving partner couldn't believe their luck! It was certainly a diving trip that they would never forget. But what really made it unforgettable was what the seal decided to do next.

ADVERTISEMENT

Reading The Seal's Signals

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-19
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

After the hand-to-flipper shake and the nuzzle session, the divers were unsure about how much time they had left with these majestic sea creatures. Moments like these were especially fleeting, so it was great that they were able to capture everything on film.

ADVERTISEMENT

At any second, the seals could've decided to swim away but after everything that had already happened, things were apparently just getting started. The seal started making movements he wanted Grayson to interpret.

ADVERTISEMENT

Not Sure What Would Happen Next

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-20
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

As Grayson continued to scratch its neck, the seal kept inching closer and closer to the sea floor as if it was trying to tell him something. It continued to nibble at Grayson's glove in an effort to get him to do what it wanted, but it was up to Grayson to figure out exactly what that was.

ADVERTISEMENT

This went on for a few minutes until finally, the seal made everything clear.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Seal Wanted A Belly Rub

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-22
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Eventually, the seal turned over on its back. At that point, it was obvious what the seal wanted Grayson to do. Apparently, Grayson's petting skills were so excellent that this seal wanted him to rub his belly!

ADVERTISEMENT

It was amazing that this seal was exhibiting such qualities! This would be normal behavior for your average dog or cat, but the fact that a seal likes belly rubs too only goes to show how universal the feeling is among animals.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Scratch Hit The Spot

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-23
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson's belly-rubbing skills were so good, that you can see the seal flapping his flipper over the diver's hand in approval. It was a darling sight to see, especially since the seal's flabby coat moved along with the waves.

ADVERTISEMENT

The seal remained on its back for some time, clearly enjoying the feeling. If anything, it only made the seal more playful as he snapped back up to make another move!

ADVERTISEMENT

The Pups Were Loving The Divers

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-24
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

After the seal decided it was done with its belly rubs, he swam back up to face Grayson. Grayson's hand moved underneath the seal's chin and began scratching. The seal apparently loved that too, as the video shows it smiling as it is happening.

ADVERTISEMENT

But soon, the seal became more lively and wanted to play some more with its new friends. At that point, it began playfully nibbling at Grayson's glove and even had his hand in its mouth!

ADVERTISEMENT

The Other Seal Wanted To Play, Too

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-25
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

In the video, Grayson looks at his friend with a smidge of concern on his face the more the seal began biting at his hand. Luckily, the bites didn't appear to forceful and it seemed the seal was just trying to play with him some more.

ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson then decided to let the seal do its thing. Meanwhile, the second seal thought it was his turn to get some action and started sniffing at Grayson's feet.

ADVERTISEMENT

Ready To Head Out

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-26
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Eventually, the first seal grew tired of the fun and games. It was obviously grateful for the belly rubs but as the diver continued to pet its coat, the seal started to swim away. At that point, it's seal companion noticed and knew it was time to go.

ADVERTISEMENT

The divers watched the seals swim away but were ultimately enthusiastic about the entire experience. Of course, they couldn't have predicted how viral the encounter would become.

ADVERTISEMENT

Making New Friends

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-27
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson's video soon gained international buzz and of course, he was asked about the experience. He told media outlets that he was "absolutely loving it" the entire time it was happening.

ADVERTISEMENT

"I had seen other seals in the water but they just buzzed past us. None was as inquisitive as [this seal] was, and none as friendly," Grayson told the Manchester Evening News. The 55-year-old businessman had quite a story to tell.

ADVERTISEMENT

Friends For A Day

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-28
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Most people might not know how to react in such a situation, but Grayson and his buddy handled everything exactly as they should have. "We were told just to sit on the bottom of the kelp but the more still we were the more inquisitive this seal was because we were in their world," Grayson said.

ADVERTISEMENT

Even though they tried not to seem threatening, their stillness apparently was a source of intrigue for the seals.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Unique Experience They Were Happy To Share

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
scuba-seal-encounter-29
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

For his part, Grayson admits that as a seasoned diver, he has really never had an experience quite like what he did with the seals at the Isles of Scilly that day.

ADVERTISEMENT

"The grey seal came across and had five minutes with me, kind of thing. Then another was climbing up my leg. I'm an experienced diver but I have never known anything like that. I've been all over the world, to Mexico and Cuba, to dive with great big mantras and sharks," he added.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Day They'll Never Forget

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
diver seal ad
YouTube
YouTube
ADVERTISEMENT

Grayson and his diving partner may have been a bit startled at first, but that's likely because they weren't expecting the seals to interact with them. "I'm not one to frighten easy," Grayson told M.E.N.

ADVERTISEMENT

He added, "If the truth be told, I'm a bit of an [adrenaline junkie]. Before that, I was into sky-diving, I had done aerobatics. I tend to live life on the edge. But this was certainly up there with anything I have ever done."

ADVERTISEMENT

What These Fishermen Found On An Iceberg Left Them Stunned In Disbelief

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-913061156-87796-20961-38130
Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images
Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Mallory Harrigan, Cliff Russell, and Allan Russell always loved going fishing together. The trio loved it so much that they even bought a boat together to start their own commercial fishing business.

ADVERTISEMENT

Living in Canada, they knew what kind of fish they could catch and what the local markets and restaurants would be interested in buying. What they didn't know was what to expect when they began hitting the waters every day in hopes of a good haul.

ADVERTISEMENT

More Than Just A Business

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
fishing-in-canada-at-night-93732-76262-62621
Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images
Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Cliff, Mallory, and Allan were more than just business partners. They were friends, and they would help each other during the longest days and hardest times. Their new business could have tested that friendship, but it never did.

ADVERTISEMENT

Every day, after hours on the sea, they would come home with new bumps and bruises on their bodies. No one would complain, and no one would quit. They loved each other and were always excited to show up for the job the next day.

ADVERTISEMENT

That Fateful Morning

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
pre-fishing-check-list-22406-80585-73725
Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images
Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

On the morning that would change these friends' lives forever, Mallory was especially excited. She didn’t know what fate had planned, but she had a good feeling about something and showed up early to prep the boat.

ADVERTISEMENT

Once everyone was there, the trio went through their pre-launch check-off list. It was imperative they have everything they needed with them on the boat. Having to travel back to shore after launching would cost them hours on the water.

ADVERTISEMENT

Setting Off

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-673407556-82084-80192-93753
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Prepping the boat was the easy part. They liked to pass the time telling jokes and and stories. They may have been old friends, but every morning felt like a 10-year reunion.

ADVERTISEMENT

The next part can be described as "the calm before the storm." The water was calm as usual as the boat headed a few miles off the Canadian coast. They knew the perfect spot to catch crab off of the Canadian coast.

ADVERTISEMENT

Letting Out Their Lines

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
crab-cages-lined-up-on-boat-83046-81117
Paul Grogan/PhotoPlus Magazine via Getty Images
Paul Grogan/PhotoPlus Magazine via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Once they reached their destination, the friends turned off the boat engine and let it idle. This spot was perfect and was always full of crabs. They dropped their lines and let the cages drag on the seafloor.

ADVERTISEMENT

It was the end of crab season, and while the previous weeks had been fruitful, they were hoping to go out with a bang. Since starting their business, this had been their most successful year. Would this be their most successful catch?

ADVERTISEMENT

The First Catch Was A Sign Of Things To Come

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
a-big-haul-of-crabs-49129-68139
Hong Wu/Getty Images
Hong Wu/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

With the cages in the water, one of them steered the boat while the other two manned the lines, making sure they didn't tangle. They knew this routine like the back of their hands.

ADVERTISEMENT

As the first cages came up they couldn’t believe it. Their spot had paid off again and it looked like today was going to be their best day ever. They high-fived in celebration, emptied the cages, the prepared to do it all over again.

ADVERTISEMENT

Moving To A New Spot

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-630807285-18801-26091
DeAgostini/Getty Images
DeAgostini/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The day was going great. Allan, Cliff, and Mallory knew they had a chance to break their crabbing record. Finished at the first location, they turned the boat back on and set off for colder waters.

ADVERTISEMENT

The further they got, they more dangerous things got. Colonies of seals could be seen resting on icebergs. Birds were nowhere in sight. But as beautiful and serene as the scene was, it was also filled with hidden dangers and surprises.

ADVERTISEMENT

Iceberg, Straight Ahead!

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
mystery-creatire-found-on-top-of-iceberg-49193-67214
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

Huge icebergs floated freely in the Labrador Sea. This was not the place to go on autopilot when fishing. One wrong turn could turn this fishing trip into the groups last.

ADVERTISEMENT

Allan was on lookout duty when he spotted something in the distance on top of an iceberg. He pointed in out to Cliff and Mallory. No one could make out what the shape was. Mallory thought it was probably a seal sunbathing away from the colony.

ADVERTISEMENT

Allan Couldn't Let Sleeping Seals Lay

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
fisherman-iceberg-mystery-discovery-12670-81591
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

Cliff fell in line with Mallory's theory. During their adventures together they had seen plenty of animals pop up in the ice waters from time to time. It wasn’t anything strange, so why was Allan acting so weird about it?

ADVERTISEMENT

He probably couldn’t tell you why, but he did know something about what was on that iceberg kept eating away at him. He told his friends that it didn’t move around like a seal and he was skeptical. They looked through their binoculars and couldn’t help but agree.

ADVERTISEMENT

Getting Closer

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-944637690-24245-43556
DEA/G. Gnemmi/Getty Images
DEA/G. Gnemmi/Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Even though they knew they needed to keep fishing, curiosity got the best of the group. They couldn't take their attention away from whatever was stranded alone on an iceberg. They decided to move in closer.

ADVERTISEMENT

As the boat got closer, the wind picked up along with the chill in the air. Then they noticed there was fur on the animal. Even scarier, the fur was wet. The poor animal must have been freezing! They decided until they knew what they were dealing with, their fishing expedition was on hold.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Investigation

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-558027659-99327-46992
Insights/UIG via Getty Images
Insights/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The friends approached cautiously in the boat. Not only did they not know what kind of animal they might have found, but they were going off-course and venturing into unexplored waters. Allan was convinced they were doing the right thing.

ADVERTISEMENT

Cliff and Mallory weren't as sure as Allan was, but the friends agreed that they needed to investigate the situation. If it was an animal in danger, then they needed to rescue it. They couldn’t live with leaving it to die on their consciences!

ADVERTISEMENT

A Slow Approach

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-558027655-69948-44282
Insights/UIG via Getty Images
Insights/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The boat moved through the water slowly. The friends watched over the sides of the boat for any unexpected dangers. Any large chunk of floating ice could damage the boat and the last thing they needed was to strand themselves.

ADVERTISEMENT

The waves had picked up, too, making the boat move more than usual. Mallory urged the group to be extra careful. They may have been excited about what they were doing, but they still needed to keep their wits about them.

ADVERTISEMENT

Choppy Waters And Wind Picked Up

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-1044466506-28374-36944
John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images
John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Without warning, a strong gust of wind rattled through the area. This made navigation even harder. Even scarier for the group, this unexpected windy whipping made the iceberg move. How would the animal react?

ADVERTISEMENT

Now that group had more than just ice to worry about. They were terrified the scared animal would jump off the iceberg from fear. Mallory kept her eyes glued to the animal. If the boat could just get a little closer she'd be able to identify what they were dealing with.

ADVERTISEMENT

Chasing The Iceberg

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-838090556-19879-94361
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The situation had taken a dangerous turn now that the team was forced to chase the iceberg. They weren't just concerned with their safety, but also the safety of whatever was pacing back and forth on the iceberg.

ADVERTISEMENT

They had to move fast to keep the boat near the iceberg. At the same time, they needed to remain cautious about the water surrounding them. Making matters worse, the day was half over and they would start running out of daylight soon!

ADVERTISEMENT

The Animal Began Taking Shape

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
iceberg-animal-resceu-73745-68752 (1)
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

They finally got close enough to the creature to start figuring out what it might be. They could see it had four legs and looked similar to a dog. There was no way this was someone's lost pet, though.

ADVERTISEMENT

As they predicted, the poor animal was soaked with cold water and was shivering uncontrollably. Allan, Cliff, and Mallory knew at this moment that they needed to do everything they could to save this animal, even if it meant putting themselves in more danger.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Animal, Identified!

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-838090596-22109-80204
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

After a few moments of disbelief, the friends realized they were staring at an Arctic fox! They didn't have time to figure out how it may have stranded itself. It was weak and there were birds starting to circle above it.

ADVERTISEMENT

Not only was the fox in danger of freezing to death, but other animals were getting excited about their next meal. The friends jumped into action, desperate to make sure the little Arctic fox lived to see another day.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Dangerous Rescue

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-828275252-18778-71816
Gareth Fuller - PA Images via Getty Images
Gareth Fuller - PA Images via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

With time running out, the group needed to work together to come up with a plan to save the fox. There wasn't a lot of time, and there was still one big question that needed to be answered.

ADVERTISEMENT

Would the fox even trust humans with its life? There’s no way of knowing how much contact this wild dog had previously had with humans. That meant despite their best intentions, there was a real possibility that they wouldn’t be able to help.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Plan

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-470416856-54622-50764
Einar Gudmann / Barcroft Media via Getty Images
Einar Gudmann / Barcroft Media via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Cliff, Mallory, and Allan needed a plan to lure the fox to them. First, they tried speaking quietly and holding out their hands to see if the scared dog would come to the safety of their arms.

ADVERTISEMENT

The fox's first instinct was to run away. Of course, it had nowhere to go and ended up just staring at the strange humans trying to save it. It refused to jump to them, and they refused to leave.

ADVERTISEMENT

Patience Is A Virtue

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-doesnt-trust-fishermen-57904-34355
Erich Thielscher/McPhoto/ullstein bild via Getty Images
Erich Thielscher/McPhoto/ullstein bild via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The waiting game was on. The fox showed no interest in the three friends. They continued to show interest in it though and they decided the best game to play was the long game.

ADVERTISEMENT

Their patience was being tested, but they refused to give up. Finally, just as they were about to break, the fox stepped toward the boat. Would it take a leap of faith? Putting its trust in the hands of humans was looking like the only way to survive.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fox Aboard!

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
rescued-arctic-fox-hiding-10877-68209
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

The fox got as close as it could to the boat. It wasn't strong enough to jump aboard however and looked to Allen for help. He gently picked it up and placed it on the boat.

ADVERTISEMENT

Things still weren’t alright. Allan and Cliff grabbed towels to dry the fox and keep it warm but were hesitant to handle the scared creature. One wrong move and it could attack. How long was this fox’s trust going to last?

ADVERTISEMENT

An Escape Attempt

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-jumped-back-inthe-water-36708-69870
Salvatore Leanza/ClickAlps/REDA&CO/UIG via Getty Images
Salvatore Leanza/ClickAlps/REDA&CO/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Scared to death, the fox decided it made the wrong choice and jumped out of the boat without warning. Everyone was stunned as the wild animal raced in the water to get back to the iceberg.

ADVERTISEMENT

The friends followed the fox until it ran out of energy. Allan gently picked it back up and placed it in the boat again. It scurried to a corner and stayed there, terrified of the situation it was in.

ADVERTISEMENT

Back From The Brink

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-soaking-wet-after-rescue-88205-84071
Einar Gudmann / Barcroft Media via Getty Images
Einar Gudmann / Barcroft Media via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

This time the team was going to make sure the Arctic fox couldn't get away. While Mallory was busy steering the ship back home, Allan and Cliff watched intently and waited for their moment to approach.

ADVERTISEMENT

They knew if they couldn’t warm the fox back up its body would go into shock. They looked around the boat, trying to find anything to make the little guy warmer and more comfortable. They never took their eyes off the animal, though.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Warm Place To Rest

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-526258858-10595-28744
Andia/UIG via Getty Images
Andia/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

From behind the steering wheel, Mallory suggested that they find a way to give the fox warmer accommodations. Cliff and Allan could only find sawdust, which they thought they could use for filled as bedding.

ADVERTISEMENT

While collecting the sawdust, they found a plastic bin to put it in. This would make a great bed frame! They packed sawdust into the bin, hoping it would act as insulation, then placed it in an area on the boat with the most sun.

ADVERTISEMENT

Getting The Fox In Bed

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-sleeping-in-sawdust-79066-11213
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

Allan, who up to this point was the de facto animal handler, picked up the Arctic fox and placed it in the bin. In a matter of seconds, the exhausted fox was sound asleep.

ADVERTISEMENT

While it was recuperating, the team continued to get back to the Canadian shore as quickly as possible. The fox was okay for now, but surely needed medical attention to make sure it would survive long term.

ADVERTISEMENT

No Rest For The Tired

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-woken-by-noise-86618-80317
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

Still about 30 minutes from shore, Cliff took over driving duties from Mallory. He changed course, knowing they might not have 30 minutes. Then he hit a wave and the fox woke up.

ADVERTISEMENT

It stared up from the bin, terrified and exhausted. Looking to calm the fox back down, Mallory suggested trying to feed it. Surely they could spare some of their fresh catch. A good meal could do wonders for the animal, if it was willing to take food from humans.

ADVERTISEMENT

All Turf, No Surf

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-1037820754-46483-49040
Fredrik von Erichsen/picture alliance via Getty Images
Fredrik von Erichsen/picture alliance via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

The fox was dry now, and the bin had indeed helped warm it up. Mallory offered the fox some fish and crab but it looked away, disinterested. There had to be something it would eat?

ADVERTISEMENT

Mallory decided to look in the crews personal food supply. She found some Vienna sausages, which she soaked in water and put in a bowl in front of the fox. It sniffed the food, then scarfed it down like a ravenous animal. This was its first meal of the day, and possibly more.

ADVERTISEMENT

Coming Back To Shore

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-coming-into-shore-after-rescue-89371-79171
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

The fox fell back to sleep after eating its meal. Shortly after, the boat began docking at the shore. The noise ended up waking the fox back up. Mallory stayed near it, trying to keep it calm with the storm of noise around it.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mallory spoke softly to the fox. It wouldn't be able to understand what she was saying, but maybe her voice would help soothe it. She just needed to keep it calm until they were done docking.

ADVERTISEMENT

Finding The Fox A Home

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-838090610-47854-81983
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Safely ashore, the next decision the friends had to make was what to do with the fox. It was warm, dry, and fed, making this the last big thing to do.

ADVERTISEMENT

True to her character, Mallory came up with the answer. She remembered there was an area near the docks that would be perfect to release the fox back into the wild. There would be no imminent danger and they could watch it safely reintegrate to its natural habitat.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Room With A View

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
arctic-fox-coming-to-new-home-16197-78390
Facebook
Facebook
ADVERTISEMENT

Not only was the fox's new location safe for it to re-enter the wild; it was equipped with a makeshift dog house! The structure was 10 minutes from the dock and very remote.

ADVERTISEMENT

They searched the area for the dog house. They knew it was located on the bluffs, but were uncertain of its exact location. Cliff carried the fox the whole way, doing his part to keep it safe while the friends finished their rescue mission.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Successful Rescue

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages-601067736-72676-84821-22720
Arterra/UIG via Getty Images
Arterra/UIG via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

It took a bit of time, but the friends found the fox a house. As they had done all day, they left the fox as much to its own decisions as possible. They placed the bin near the house and waited.

ADVERTISEMENT

The arctic fox stepped out of the bin, shook itself off, and walked to the house. It sat down at the entrance and looked over its new home. At this moment, Mallory, Cliff, and Allan all knew they had done something amazing.