Tasmania has introduced a management plan for Neil the seal after the five-year-old elephant seal caused more than $36,000 in damage during a visit to the state’s shores in July.
The measures are intended to protect Neil and the public when he next comes ashore, following the attention generated by his appearances on beaches and quiet suburban streets.
An interim protection order now gives southern elephant seals additional safeguards when they come on to land and potentially encounter people. It includes a minimum approach distance of 30 metres, requirements for dogs to be kept under control and restrictions on parking cars near seals.
Tasmanian Environment Minister Guy Barnett said the plan had been developed with councils, police and scientific specialists.
“Neil the seal has become a much-loved Tasmanian icon … helping raise awareness of Tasmania’s unique wildlife and natural environment,” Mr Barnett said.
“Neil comes to land to rest, so the best way to care for him is to give him the space he needs to behave naturally.”
Neil hauls out twice a year to rest and moult in south-east Tasmania, where he was born. His visits have attracted millions of views online, including footage of him crushing bollards and fences and settling on streets beside the coast.
Large crowds have gathered to watch the seal, prompting wildlife authorities in June to urge people to keep their distance or risk “loving Neil to death”.
Southern elephant seals are listed as vulnerable in Australia, and experts have warned that interactions with people can have serious consequences for wildlife.
Mr Barnett said: “The best thing people can do is give Neil space … keep dogs under control and enjoy observing him from a safe distance.”
