Article by Rory Poulter

Film footage posted on social media has captured a seal tucking into a large fish in the Thames between Richmond and Twickenham.

The footage was filmed on Saturday near Twickenham Bridge, confirming that the Thames is proving a happy home for seals which normally live in the North Sea.

This apparently mature seal had made it the 65 miles up the river from the mouth of the Thames and was clearly enjoying the sunshine and his large meal.

The footage was captured by Vivi Sacerdote - @veevs - of Twickenham and posted on both Instagram and Twitter.

Credit: @veevs.

She told Nub News: "I've been wanting to see a seal for so long and it was wonderful to see it.

"At first we thought it was in trouble as we thought it was having problems with a carrier bag, but then we saw it was enjoying a fish which was a relief!

"It's just so lovely to see it so relaxed and beautiful."

Seals can happily survive in the Thames, which is tidal through to Teddington Lock and contains a plentiful supply of fresh fish.

Credit: @veevs.

A scientific study published last year found the Thames, particularly the estuary, supports over 115 species, including varieties of seahorses, oysters and even some types of shark.

Seals are often seen along the Thames through to Teddington and even some whales have made it upriver with tragic results.

In May last year a baby Minke whale was destroyed after attempts at a rescue were unsuccessful and it became clear the animal was in distress.

Credit: Emma Dunford.

Large crowds gathered to see the whale circling in the foaming water at Teddington Lock, while RNLI volunteers assessed how to help the stricken mammal.