The young southern elephant seal nicknamed "Neil" has returned to the Tasmanian coastline, with local authorities urging the public to give the animal space.

Neil is popular on social media and even has merchandising sold in his name — all which contribute to his problematic celebrity.

Neil is already very large, but over the next two years, he's expected to grow to up to 5 metres in length and weigh as much as 3,500 kilograms — one of the main reasons authorities say the public must stay well clear.

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