Oil Spill Response

Oil spills have significant environmental effects on water bodies and their surroundings. When oil is released into water, it forms slicks that can spread over large areas, coating the surface and affecting marine life. The oil can smother and kill fish, birds, and other wildlife, disrupt ecosystems by damaging habitats like marshes and coral reefs, and contaminate sediments. Oil spills also pose risks to human health through consumption of contaminated seafood and exposure to toxic chemicals.

For birds, oil penetrates and opens up the plumage, reducing its insulating ability and making birds more vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. Exposure can also impair the flight ability of birds, making it difficult or impossible for them to escape their predators. Most birds affected by an oil spill will die without human intervention.

Marine mammals exposed to oil spills are affected in similar ways as seabirds. Oil coats the fur of sea otters and seals, reducing its insulation abilities and leading to body temperature fluctuations and hypothermia. Ingestion of the oil causes dehydration and impaired digestion.