Tassie seal surprises beachgoers with inland sunbake

Known affectionately as Neil, the southern elephant seal was a back-to-school surprise for local Meg Garvey and her family on Tuesday morning.

"At first I thought it was a really large rock, then I saw the people gathered around and realised that's a really large seal," she told AAP.

"He must have gone up the disability ramp, cruised up from the beach and then gone to sleep," Ms Garvey said of the 400kg seal's journey across the busy Osborne Esplanade.

"The kids were getting ready for their first day back at school, I yelled at them to come down and take a look."

Neil is no stranger to public visits, with multiple trips along the Tasmanian southeast coast since his birth in 2020.

"He doesn't seem very perturbed by people or dogs," Ms Garvey said. "I hope he stays around."

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania is keeping a close eye on Neil and his admirers.

"Hauling out is normal behaviour for a seal and it should be left alone to rest," Marine Conservation Program wildlife biologist Sam Thalmann said.

"It is important people stay at least 20 metres from the animal and don't disturb it. Pets should be kept on a leash and away from the seal. While it may appear calm and relaxed, it is still a large wild animal."

Australian Associated Press