Neil the Seal, Tasmania's beloved celebrity, has completed his annual moult and returned to the ocean, ending his 'reign of terror' on land.

The five-year-old elephant seal's solo return to his birthplace is part of a natural survival process, as he sheds his old fur and regrows a silver coat.Wildlife experts warn that while Neil's antics have made him an internet sensation, his popularity poses risks.Dr Kris Carlyon highlighted that Neil's solitary behavior, without seals to interact with, drives his playful destruction of fences and poles.The seal's absence from land indicates he's now fully returned to the ocean to rebuild his blubber reserves.Community concerns about human interaction with Neil have led to a petition for protected zones, with over 79,000 signatures.

While Neil's appearances are a positive sign for Tasmania's wildlife, experts stress he's a wild animal, not a pet, and warn against approaching or feeding him.

The moulting process, which takes four to six weeks, is critical for elephant seals to maintain their health, and Neil's return underscores the importance of natural cycles for species survival.