If there’s one thing you should know about the internet, it’s that it loves to highlight the cutest animals. Take Grumpy Cat, Doug the Pug, and Boo — it’s pretty common for users online to turn beloved pets into celebrities. But TikTok’s latest viral sensation is much larger and has a more chaotic attitude than a domesticated animal. A 600kg elephant seal, lovingly nicknamed Neil The Seal, has captured hearts from all over the world as he wreaks havoc in Tasmania (an island off the coast of Australia). As soon as I saw him taking over my FYP, I was instantly hooked.
Neil is normally found on beaches or in the ocean, but occasionally, he ventures onto land to take naps that can last three to four weeks. After taking over the town of Dunalley, Neil has been found on residents’ porches and lawns. He was even caught sleeping in front of one woman’s car and preventing her from going to work. Since going viral on TikTok, people have been calling Neil The Seal the agent of chaos as he continues to take over Tasmania. Videos of him have received thousands of views — and rightfully so!
Despite Neil The Seal’s cuteness, he’s been causing major inconveniences for the people of Tasmania.
Local police ha tried luring Neil back into the water multiple times, but he keeps coming back.
Neil also has his own Instagram page, in case you want to keep up with his adventures — and TBH, who wouldn’t?
Because of Neil’s spontaneous travels, marine conservation experts have geotagged him, so they can come to the rescue if he puts himself in danger. However, his location is never publicly disclosed, and Tasmanians know to maintain a distance of 10 meters (33 feet) if they ever spot him.
His tracker makes him look like a little alien. Impossible challenge: look at this picture and try not to smile.
He’s even mastered the worm — a feat that not even some humans, myself included, can accomplish.
Neil may be causing major inconveniences in people’s daily lives, but he’s been forgiven due to that cute face. This good boy deserves all the naps in the world.
He looks so peaceful and carefree. All I want is to trade lives with Neil The Seal for a day. Is that too much to ask?
I have never been happier to go down an internet rabbit hole and felt compelled to share with the class. I hope this adorable not-so-little guy brightened your day as much as he did mine!