Los Angeles’ Oiled Wildlife Care Network Treatment Center treats over twenty-two birds that were caught in an oil spillage off the coast of the region a few weeks ago.
“We actually have seven live snowy plovers,”Mike Ziccardi, director of The Oiled Wildlife Care Network. “They’re small shorebirds that are federally threatened species, very sensitive species.
“They were then oiled.” Ziccardi continued. “Because they are shorebirds, oil likely walked in to them.”
He adds that officials are optimistic the birds will fully recover.
“This is the best place to care for oily animals. For spillages that we can quickly clean up, we have a rate of 50-75% for animals brought in to be released back into their natural habitats.”
For now, cleanup continues along the shore. Although some beaches have reopened, the public still isn’t allowed into the water. As for the birds, they’re probably looking forward to returning to nature soon.
The coast guard is investigating the incident with other agencies as a “Major marine casualty” was caused by a vessel being involved. The total damages caused by the spillage have exceeded $500,000.
They will determine whether criminal charges or civil penalties are necessary.
