March 2026 ‘Wildlife Encounters’

For a long time, I didn’t like to think about what creatures I was sharing the water with when I was swimming in the ocean, gliding across a lake or slipping into a river. I would close my eyes in the water and only open them to sight and breathe. I never wanted to see anything looking back at me and, if something brushed against my body, I’d mildly panic and my stroke would suffer.

Over time, through swimming in different countries and waters and learning more about the natural world, I’ve managed to overcome this. Now I help other swimmers do the same. My advice is often to learn about the nature at your swim spot or gently face your fears by exposing yourself, again and again, to the sensations and situations that unsettle you.

These days I swim with ease in most places and feel curious about the underwater worlds around me. I mostly enjoy seeing what’s in the water with me, unless it’s jellyfish. They remain my kryptonite. I know many swimmers have their own feelings about wildlife encounters, which is why we wanted to explore this in more detail in this month’s issue.

Wildlife encounters can be magical, but they can also be unsettling and a reminder that we are visitors in a world that isn’t ours. A turtle gliding beneath you in warm holiday seas is very different from a playful seal nudging you mid-swim off the Cornish coast. In this issue, swimmers share their experiences of wildlife from swans to sharks. We also dive into mythical monsters and imagined creatures, alongside practical advice on how to handle real-life encounters.

Alongside what lurks beneath, you’ll find all the usual guidance on technique, gear, travel and events. We’ve also relaunched our reader benefits, so do make sure you’re getting the most out of being part of the Outdoor Swimmer membership!

Ella Foote, Editor