'Give him the space he needs': Tasmania launches new safety plan for Neil the Seal's next visit

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To protect Neil and the community for when he next drops in, the state government released on Sunday a management plan to protect Neil's welfare and community safety. "Neil the…

Global superstar Neil the Seal's antics have wowed people online — and now measures have been introduced to make sure his next land visit is a pleasant one.

The five-year-old elephant seal visited Tasmanian shores in July, when he racked up a substantial damages bill of more than $36,000.

To protect Neil and the community for when he next drops in, the state government released on Sunday a management plan to protect Neil's welfare and community safety.

"Neil the Seal has become a much-loved Tasmanian icon ... helping raise awareness of Tasmania's unique wildlife and natural environment," Environment Minister Guy 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."

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Neil hauls out twice each year to rest and moult in the island state's southeast, where he was born.

His antics, including crushing bollards, fences and lounging on quiet beachside streets, have drawn millions of views on social media.

An interim protection order has been made to give all southern elephant seals extra safeguards when they come onto land and potentially into contact with humans.

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