Tasmania introduces protection plan for celebrity seal Neil

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Nov, 22:43 · Archive

Tasmania has released a management plan to protect Neil, a five-year-old elephant seal who visited in July causing over $36,000 in damages.

Tasmania's government has released a management plan to protect Neil, a five-year-old elephant seal whose July visit to the state's southeast caused damages exceeding $36,000. His antics, including crushing bollards and fences and lounging on beachside streets, have drawn millions of views on social media.

The plan introduces minimum approach distances of 30 metres, requirements to control dogs and restrictions on parking cars near seals. An interim protection order extends safeguards to all southern elephant seals when they come onto land. Environment Minister Guy Barnett said the measures were developed with consultation from councils, police and scientific advisers.

Barnett stated that Neil comes to land to rest, and 'the best way to care for him is to give him the space he needs to behave naturally'. He advised the public to keep dogs under control and observe the seal from a safe distance. Wildlife authorities previously urged people to keep their distance to avoid 'loving Neil to death'. Southern elephant seals are currently listed as vulnerable in Australia. Neil hauls out twice each year to rest and moult in his birthplace in Tasmania's southeast.

How it is being reported

• Neil the seal given special protection for next visitSafe viewing distances and requirements for dog owners are part of a suite of new measures designed to protect one of the Apple Isle's most beloved animals.The West Australian · 14 Nov, 22:21
• Neil the seal given special protection for next visitSafe viewing distances and requirements for dog owners are part of a suite of new measures designed to protect one of the Apple Isle's most beloved animals.Perth Now · 14 Nov, 22:21

In this story: Neil · Tasmania · Guy Barnett

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