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Massive Elephant Seal Neil Returns, Requires 20-Metre Buffer

7/2/2026

40 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Neil, a 1,000-kilogram southern elephant seal, has returned to southern Tasmania and is expected to stay for six weeks.
Officials say Neil has broken fences, slept on roads, and must be observed from at least 20 metres away, or 50 metres if dogs are present.
Authorities warn relocation is a risky last resort, citing Norway’s 2022 euthanasia of a large walrus after safety warnings were ignored.

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Story summary

Neil, a 1,000-kilogram southern elephant seal, has returned to southern Tasmania and is expected to stay for six weeks.
Officials say Neil has broken fences, slept on roads, and must be observed from at least 20 metres away, or 50 metres if dogs are present.
Authorities warn relocation is a risky last resort, citing Norway’s 2022 euthanasia of a large walrus after safety warnings were ignored.