Urgent public help needed to find source of oil impacting seabirds

Media release
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation is seeking the help of the public to identify the source of oil discovered on a number of sea birds, including mainly pelicans, south of Perth.

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Oiled birds have been discovered at multiple locations, including Tonkin Drive in Furnissdale, Wellard Wetlands in Baldivis and Tern Island and Lake Richmond in Safety Bay.

At least 11 pelicans and one spoonbill have been impacted by the oil. WA Seabird Rescue has been able to rescue one impacted pelican which now being de-oiled.

The department has been investigating potential locations where the impacted sea birds are known to frequent, but no related oil spills have been identified or reported to Pollution Watch.

The department is asking for the public to please be alert for the presence of any oil or hydrocarbon spills within marine or any other aquatic environments or areas and if safe, to take photographs.

Spills should be reported to the department’s Pollution Watch Hotline on 1300 784 782, or email pollutionwatch@dwer.wa.gov.au.