Neil the elephant seal returns to sea after viral antics in Tasmania

Neil, the five-year-old southern elephant seal, has returned to sea after weeks of viral antics in Tasmania. Source: BBC, CNN, Guardian Weighing 2,200 pounds (1 tonne), he attracted global attention by blocking roads, crushing signs, and even rocking a van. Source: CNN, Guardian

Viral antics

Neil's behaviour is unusual because most southern elephant seals breed on remote subantarctic islands, but he hauls out in populated areas of Tasmania. Videos of him flattening traffic cones and peering through screen doors have earned him a TikTok fanpage with 1.7 million followers and even a theme song. Source: CNN "It's like this giant slug coming at you," said Hobart resident Rebecca Thomson, who was followed by Neil in a parking lot. Source: CNN

The conundrum

Officials warn that his popularity could jeopardise his safety. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) said euthanasia is a last resort if public safety cannot be guaranteed. Source: Guardian "Regardless of the resource burden … we're pleased to see him," said Kris Carlyon, NRE's head of wildlife health. Source: Guardian

Neil's departure was expected; he has not been tracked since 2024 when his satellite tag fell off during moult. Source: Guardian Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said "the traffic cones and street signs of Tasmania can breathe a small sigh of relief."