But it also encourages perhaps risky human behaviour, people trying to get selfies with Neil, people trying get that little bit closer for that good photo."
He emphasized that onlookers have repeatedly ignored guidelines by prioritizing social media pictures over physical safety.
"Carrying their small babies up close to him and simply trying to get that shot for Instagram," said Dr Carlyon.
Carlyon reiterated that the animal is not inherently aggressive but will react to protect his immediate surroundings.
"Neil’s not inherently aggressive in the sense that some other animals might be," said Dr Carlyon.
He concluded with instructions on the required buffer zones for residents and their domestic pets.
"He’ll certainly defend his space, and if he feels threatened he may lash out. So really it’s about that proximity and staying away," said Dr Carlyon.
Biologists and Experts Echo Warnings
Wildlife biologist Sam Thamman from the Marine Conservation Program confirmed that thousands of spectators have gathered at Neil's coastal resting location.
"Certainly, over the last week, there have been hundreds of people in attendance and possibly thousands visiting over the course of a day," said Thamman.
Thamman noted that the presence of crowds has led to undesirable interactions that officials are working to halt.
"So there's a lot of attention.
And sometimes there's some unwarranted attention towards Neil and some behaviours that we try to discourage," said Thamman.
He described these specific behaviors by visitors as highly inappropriate given the seal's immense weight.
"This is really poor behaviour," said Thamman.
